Halloween is a fun holiday for people of all ages. From trick-or-treating, costumes, parties, and haunted attractions, there is something for almost everyone. When you’re out having a spooky good time during the season, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards, especially when it comes to burn injuries. In this blog, our Bullhead City burn injury attorneys explore some crucial tips to prevent a Halloween burn injury and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.
Halloween Fire Accidents by the Numbers
- According to data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2018 and 2022, there was an annual average of 835 home fires related to Halloween decorations.
- These fires resulted in three civilian fatality, 30 civilian fire-related injuries, and caused direct property damage, amounting to $14 million.
- 47% of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source.
- On average, around 9,200 fires are reported to fire departments in the United States during the three days around Halloween each year.
- Outdoor fires accounted for 34% of all Halloween fires, followed by residential fires.
- Residential fires on Halloween accounted for the majority of fire deaths, injuries, and property damage.
- The leading causes of residential fires during the Halloween season included cooking, heating, carelessness, and electrical malfunctions.
How Prevent a Halloween Burn Injury
1) Choose Batteries Over Candles
Jack-o’-lanterns are a Halloween tradition, but they can become a hazard if you use a real candle. One of the easiest ways to prevent a Halloween burn injury is to opt for battery-operated lights instead of candles with an open flame. This eliminates the risk of the pumpkin catching fire, and they are much safer for trick-or-treaters who might accidentally knock over a pumpkin.
2) Maintain Clear Pathways
Ensure that your Halloween display doesn’t obstruct walkways or create tripping hazards. Clear your porch and walkways of all debris. Dry leaves, twigs and other natural features of fall are highly flammable. Along with the risk of a Halloween burn injury, keeping a clear pathway will also help prevent a slip and fall accident.
3) Only Purchase Non-Flammable Costumes
When choosing or making costumes, opt for flame-resistant or flame-retardant materials. Make sure costumes aren’t too long to avoid tripping. When wearing a mask, make sure it doesn’t obstruct vision.
4) Keep Decorations Away from Heat Sources
Ensure that decorations are kept a safe distance away from heat sources, such as light bulbs, heaters, or candles. Pay special attention to spider webs, curtains, and hanging decorations, as they can easily catch fire.
5) Have a Fire Safety Plan
Create a home fire escape plan if you don’t already have one. If your kids will be attending any social events, remind them to look for all available exits once they arrive.
6) Check Your Smoke Alarms
Check your smoke alarm for proper operation. The NFPA cites a report showing that three out of five residential fire deaths occur in homes with malfunctioning smoke alarms or none at all. Along with this, have a fire extinguisher on hand. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to use fire extinguishers and what to do in case of a fire and to stop a potential Halloween burn injury.
7) Double Check Electric Decorations
When using any electronic decorations, such as lights, make sure they are functioning properly before plugging them in. Do not plug in any electrical decor if the wires are frayed.
Consult a Burn Injury Attorney in Bullhead City
Halloween should be a fun and safe holiday for everyone. By following these tips, you can help to prevent burn injuries and other accidents. Should you or a family member fall victim to a Halloween burn injury caused by the negligence or recklessness of another, our team of Bullhead City injury lawyers can help you win compensation for injuries, pain and suffering, and even wrongful death.
We have a proven track record of success and have recovered billions total for our clients nationwide. Contact us today for your free case consultation.
Our representatives are available to take your call 24/7 at 928-222-2222 or respond to your inquiry online through LiveChat.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.