Halloween safety: keep the spooks fun and the scares safe

Halloween is a time for spooky costumes, glowing pumpkins, trick-or-treating and plenty of lollies. But while you’re getting ready for a night of frightful fun, a few simple safety checks can help keep the celebration memorable for all the right reasons.

From hidden button battery dangers to costume fires, cosmetic reactions and low visibility after dark, here are some practical tips to help make this Halloween safer for everyone.

Button batteries: the hidden Halloween hazard

Halloween toys and decorations can hide a serious hazard – button and coin batteries, which can be found in products such as jack-o’-lanterns, flashing wands, cauldrons, torches and battery-operated candles.

These tiny batteries can cause serious internal injuries and burns if swallowed or inserted into the body and can be life-threatening. They’re also a choking risk, especially for young children.

Choose products where the battery compartment is securely fastened with a screw or other mechanism so the battery can’t be easily accessed.

Keep loose and spare batteries well out of children’s reach.

If you think a child has swallowed or inserted a button battery, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Then call 13 11 26 for 24/7 fast and expert advice from the Poisons Information Centre.

Frighteningly good makeup – check the label

Face paint, fake blood, novelty tattoos and costume makeup can transform a Halloween costume, but it’s important to know what you’re putting on your skin.

Some cosmetic ingredients may cause irritation, rashes or allergic reactions, particularly in children or people with sensitive skin.

Before applying Halloween makeup:

• Read the ingredient label and follow the product directions.
• Avoid products without clear labelling.
• Choose products from reputable brands and suppliers.
• Consider doing a patch test beforehand, particularly when using a new product.
• Keep the ingredient information available in case a reaction occurs. It can help health professionals identify the product and provide appropriate treatment.

A little preparation can help make sure the only thing scary about your makeup is the look.

Dress up, but keep fire down

Costumes and open flames don’t mix. Candles, jack-o’-lanterns, heaters, fireplaces and other heat sources can pose a serious fire risk when costumes, wigs or accessories are nearby.

When choosing a costume or wig, look for products labelled 'flame resistant' or 'fire resistant' but remember, even flame-resistant materials can still burn.

Keep costumes, wigs and accessories well away from flames and heat sources, and avoid long, loose or flowing costumes that could easily come into contact with fire. Never leave children unattended around candles, fires, heaters or anything else that burns, and take extra care with loose fabric, flowing sleeves and trailing accessories.

Choose a costume that brings the thrills but not the chills.

Don’t be a shadow in the night. Glow, be seen and stay safe!

When the sun goes down, visibility matters. Help your trick-or-treaters stand out – not disappear into the darkness.

Visibility checklist:

• Glow sticks – attach to costumes or bags for increased visibility.
• Reflective tape – stick to clothing or costumes to reflect light and enhance safety.
• Torches – carry a flashlight to light your path and help you to be seen in the dark.
• Light-up accessories – use LED accessories to help increase your visibility.
• Bright colours – break up dark costumes with bold, bright colours.

A few simple tricks can make a big difference – helping keep trick-or-treaters visible to drivers and other pedestrians.