Parents Warned About 'Dangerous' Halloween Costumes
As thousands of shops across the region stock up on Halloween costumes, our region's firefighters are warning parents of the dangers.
Cleveland Fire and Rescue Service is calling for legislation to make sure children's outfits are regulated.
They want to see all children's costumes made from fire resistant fabric to prevent burns.
TV presenter Claudia Winkleman's 8 year old daughter suffering serious burns last year after her outfit caught fire when she brushed past a candle.
At the minute many costumes are classed as toys - and even when they are said to be regulated it can be luck of the draw.
The fire service are launching a campaign to keep people safe over the three weeks around Halloween and Bonfire Night.
Last year, 214 deliberate fires between 15th October and 12th November cost the force ÂŁ464,000.
District Manager John Feeney says action must be taken to keep children safe. He said:
"It's absolutely frightening.
You think this is meant to be safe, this material can catch fire and it's up in seconds, miliseconds.
And if you happen to be the individual, or it's one of your children or relatives wearing that costume it would be the worst thing in the world."