Safety watchdog warns of hazardous products ahead of Halloween

Sarah Slater

A safety watchdog is warning consumers to avoid hazardous products ahead of Halloween celebrations.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is warning that while it is easy to get caught up in the costumes and sweets, it is important not to get carried away and remember “safety first, scares second”.

The CCPC is urging those shopping for children’s Halloween costumes and accessories to make sure to check that they have the CE mark.

Children’s Halloween costumes must carry the CE mark visibly on the costume or its packaging. The mark indicates that the costume meets the required safety regulations.

If decorating a house, the CCPC advises members of the public to “check spooky bits and bobs for small detachable parts”.

“Anything smaller than a €2 coin could be a choking hazard, so don’t leave anything detachable where small (children’s) hands could find them,” the watchdog said.

“If buying props for a child’s costume, these may not be classified as toys or meet the safety requirements or standards for toys so ensure that accessories are made of soft flexible materials.

“Be careful with candles in (the) home, especially around Halloween costumes as there is always a risk of costumes catching fire. It is safer to use battery-operated candles instead of lit ones,” it added.

The CCPC is also urging adults to explain the “dangers of illegal fireworks, sparklers and bonfires” to children and teenagers and to make sure they stay a safe distance away from them.