HERE'S HOW TO AVOID A REAL LIFE HOLLOWEEN HORROR, SAYS FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

You'll avoid a real life Halloween horror by remembering important fire safety messages, says West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service.

Roger Wood , Head of Community Fire Safety, said: "Every year at Halloween, many adults and children are injured in accidents where lighted candles or fireworks have ignited flammable costumes and hair. Plastic capes and bin liners, often used as costumes, are also fire risks.

"Homemade lanterns made from hollowed pumpkins and candles are extremely hazardous. If the candle tips over, it could set light to materials such as costumes, curtains, clothes, and furniture and start a serious fire.

"Lanterns should never be made from plastic bottles or other containers that are very dangerous and if handled carelessly could result in burns and also cause a fire. There is also the danger that the previous contents of the bottle may be combustible.

"We are asking parents to think very carefully about the fire risks before encouraging children to make their own Halloween lanterns.

"We also want to encourage parents to only buy Halloween costumes and masks that are labelled as flame resistant. Children should be kept away from naked flames at all times.

"If you're thinking of decorating your home with lighting or special effects, then extra care should be taken not to overload electrical sockets.

"Decorative lights should always be switched off at the mains last thing at night or if the bulbs need to be changed.

"Most importantly, homes should be fitted with smoke alarms all year round, which should be checked regularly, to provide life-saving early warning if a fire does occur."

Lionel Barnard , County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: "We certainly don't want to stop people enjoying the traditional spooky behaviour and frightening fun of Halloween.

"So, please follow the fire safety advice of our experts - it will ensure your
celebrations do not become a terrifying experience for all the wrong reasons."

For more fire safety advice, telephone Community Fire Safety on . Or visit the services website at www.westsussex.gov.uk