With Halloween around the corner, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is offering tips and guidelines for celebrating with fire safety in mind.

According to the association, between 2019 and 2023, an annual average of 832 home structure fires began with decorations, resulting in three deaths, 28 injuries, and $17 million in direct property damage. Almost half of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, while one-third of incidents started with candles as the ignition source.

“Halloween is a festive holiday for people of all ages, but it’s important to recognize where potential fire dangers lurk,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. “By following a few simple steps, families can help keep the holiday fun and spooky, while still staying safe.”

NFPA’s safety resources include a Halloween safety page and actionable steps to stay safe:

• Dress Safely: Avoid costumes that have a trailing fabric and make sure children can see out of their masks.
• Bright Path to Fun: Give children flashlights or glow sticks as part of their costumes; be wary that flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Use only battery-operated candles or glow-sticks in jack-o-lanterns.
• Exit Safely: Make sure all fire alarms are working and exits are unobstructed.

See more tips and resources via NFPA’s new press release.