Halloween is becoming one of Ireland’s biggest celebrations, second only to Christmas in terms of retail sales, decorations and consumer interest. But Halloween makes many parents nervous as they send their children out “trick or treating”. Maurice Buckley, CEO, NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland), says, “Halloween is an exciting time for our children, but there are a number of safety issues that many parents need to be aware of. As Ireland’s official standards body, NSAI aims to assure consumer confidence and to help protect the public. The following safety tips will help ensure your kids have a fun and safe Halloween.”
Check the labels on all costumes and accessories to ensure they are flame-resistant: When purchasing a costume or accessories like masks, beards or wigs, look for the CE mark and the Flame Resistant label, which shows that the manufacturer has complied with national and international standards. Although this label does not mean these items won't catch fire, it does indicate the items will resist burning and should extinguish quickly once removed from the ignition source.
Look for the CE Mark on Halloween Toys: If your child is carrying a plastic costume prop or toy such as a mask or a pitchfork, look for the CE Mark. Under Irish and European law, toys placed on the European market must display the CE Mark. The CE Mark demonstrates that the manufacturer has complied with the Irish and European standard, I.S. EN 71 "Safety of Toys", and the product has undergone safety testing in the design and manufacture process.
Halloween novelty lights: A number of shops are now selling Halloween novelty lights similar in style to Christmas lights. All electrical products sold in the EU, must also comply with safety standards, and must carry a CE mark. The mark should be visible on the product itself or on its packaging. If it doesn't have the CE mark, don't buy it.
Face paints can give rise to skin reactions: Most face paints do not pose a health risk when the directions on the label are followed and when the product is used properly. However, children have more sensitive skin and are more susceptible to developing a reaction, so be aware of any adverse reaction and pay attention to comments from your children on how the face paint feels.
