Halloween Safety Tips
October 17, 2026
Going big on the yard display? Keep cords out of walkways, use decorations rated for outdoor use, and swap real candles for battery ones. Decorate safely

Cute as a Button…but Beware!
- Each year, nearly 3,500 people of all ages in the United States unintentionally swallow button batteries, also known as watch or coin batteries, used to power many electronics including toys, decorations, and remote controls.
- 56,667 people, including children, were hospitalized for battery ingestion related injuries between 1993 and 2013. All battery related fatalities involved button batteries.
Costumes that give a scare…
Halloween is thrilling for kids and they are often distracted and excited while participating in the festivities. However, some decorations, such as candles, can be potentially dangerous. Be sure to choose decorations, costumes, and accessories, that are made with flame-resistant, flame-retardant, or non-combustible materials.
A Haunted House
- Before you decorate, inspect each electrical item and discard any with damaged wires.
- If you’re using electrical products outside, make sure they are marked “for outdoor use.”
- Keep electric cords out of high-traffic areas, where they can be a tripping hazard to trick-or-treaters.
- Be sure to plug all outdoor decorations into circuits protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electric shock.

Almost half of all families in the United States use alternate heating sources in place of or in addition to a furnace. However, heating equipment can be dangerous if not used properly. Whatever methods you choose to heat your home this winter, take the following precautions to stay both warm and safe.









