Suffolk Trading Standards urge parents to buy Halloween costumes from reputable retailers
The group suggest also suggest buying from a UK based retailer.
Suffolk trading standards are reminding people to check the safety of costumes and accessories ahead of Halloween.
It also comes alongside advice from Suffolk Fire & Rescue service on how to stay safe and have fun ahead of the spooky celebrations.
Sasha Watson from Trading Standards in Suffolk said: "When it comes to costumes, we're looking at if they're correctly labelled and have an a CE mark or a UKCA mark on them.
"If you're buying online from the likes of Amazon or eBay look at who the seller is, have they got their address on there? Is that based in the UK?"
"If it's not, if it's based outside of the UK, it should be a bit of a red flag and you you might want to think about buying elsewhere."
Safety tips from Suffolk Fire and Rescue also include:
- Keep costumes away from candles and flames as they can be flammable. If clothing does catch fire, children should ‘Stop, drop and roll’ and this could be practiced with parents at home before the event
- Make sure you can be seen in dark. During both Halloween and Bonfire Night, use reflective tape and glowsticks to make yourself more visible, especially when near roads.
- Consider using a battery-powered candle for your pumpkin for extra safety
- If using candles, ensure they are fully extinguished before you leave the house
- Ensure escape routes are kept clear of Halloween decorations
Halloween costumes for children should only be bought from a reputable retailer.
Parents are being told to check the product for safety markings and look for a flame-resistant label.
Group Manager Lee Wilkins, Suffolk Fire and Rescue's Head of Prevention, Community Engagement and Partnership Working, said: “We want everyone to have a great time and enjoy all the activities of this time of year in safety.
“Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure Halloween and Bonfire Night remain fun and fire safe.”