Halloween costume fires injure children every year — and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that most Halloween costumes sold online and at discount retailers can ignite within seconds of contact with an open flame. A costume that catches fire can cause severe burns over a large body surface area before a child or parent can react. The CPSC requires Halloween costumes to carry flame-resistant labeling — but many costumes on the market do not meet this standard.
What the Label Must Say
CPSC requires that Halloween costumes be constructed of flame-resistant material. The costume’s label should state “flame resistant” — not “flame retardant,” which is a separate chemical treatment that wears off. A costume labeled “flame resistant” is made of material that is inherently resistant to burning, self-extinguishing more quickly and producing a slower flame spread.
Costumes that do not carry this label — particularly flowing, synthetic-fabric costumes with capes, wings, and layered skirts — can ignite almost instantly when they contact candle flames, jack-o-lantern flames, or decorative torches, and the fire can spread across the entire costume in seconds.
Additional Fire Safety Rules for Halloween
- Inspect every costume, wig, and accessory for the “flame resistant” label before purchase and use.
- Use battery-operated glow sticks, LED candles, or flameless lighting inside jack-o-lanterns rather than open-flame candles. This alone eliminates the primary source of costume ignition.
- Avoid long, flowing costume elements that trail on the ground — capes, robes, and skirts with excess fabric are most easily ignited.
- Check that makeup and face paint is non-toxic and labeled safe for skin — some Halloween face paints contain heavy metals or allergens.
- Ensure costumes fit properly so children do not trip while walking in the dark. Oversized costumes with excess fabric create both fire and fall hazards.
- Use retroreflective tape or battery-operated lights to make children visible to drivers.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, visit SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772.
