Tennessee fire officials are reminding residents to use caution with Halloween decorations to help prevent home fires this fall.
The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance and Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office said decorations that use open flames or electricity can create fire risks. Candles used in jack-o’-lanterns, outdoor inflatables and mechanical decorations can pose hazards if not used properly.
State Fire Marshal Carter Lawrence encouraged Tennesseans to make sure decorations are used safely and correctly, whether they are indoors or outdoors.
Fire safety tips include:
- Use extension cords rated for outdoor use and remove damaged cords from service.
- Use battery-operated candles or glow sticks in jack-o’-lanterns. If using real candles, never leave them unattended and supervise children around lit candles.
- Use GFCI protection with outdoor decorations and test the protection before each use.
- Only use products listed by qualified testing laboratories, such as UL or Intertek.
- Be mindful of alcohol consumption when preparing food for Halloween parties.
- Keep flammable decorations, including dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper, away from open flames and heat sources such as light bulbs and space heaters.
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