FIRE chiefs are urging Teignbridge residents to be wary of fire safety when dressing-up in Halloween costumes.

The warning comes as adults and children can be injured where lighted candles or fireworks have ignited flammable costumes and hair.

A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue service said: ‘Ensure children are well supervised at all times, especially if they are around fireworks, sparklers or open flames such as pumpkins with candles.’

Revellers are reminded to keep away from naked flames and avoid using them or candles in pumpkins, use a glow stick or battery operated candle instead.

If clothing does catch light, the ‘stop, drop and roll’ method is a way to extinguish the flames and stop them rising towards the face.

Choose a costume and mask which doesn’t restrict a child’s visibility.

Wear woollen tights or heavy trousers such as jeans and a woollen jumper under the costume.

Avoid capes, trains and dangling sleeves, make sure costumers meet European and British flammability safety standards.

Use caution creating homemade costumes and stick with polyester, nylon, wool and acrylic fabrics.

Never leave candles or lit pumpkins unattended in the home, make sure they are secured in a fire resistant holder, away from furniture and curtains.

Always leave 10mm between burning candles or tea lights and never place them under shelves or in enclosed spaces.

Make sure candles are out completely before going to bed.

Use a snuffer or spoon to put them out as blowing can cause sparks to fly.