With Halloween approaching, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a public warning following alarming test results on children’s fancy dress costumes. OPSS tested 128 Halloween costumes intended for children under seven years old, discovering that more than 80% failed essential safety checks, including critical tests for flammability and strangulation hazards due to cords.

The tests, conducted on items sourced from various online marketplaces, revealed that many costumes failed to meet the requirements set out by the Safety of Toys Regulations 2011. In response, OPSS has ensured that all unsafe items identified during testing have been removed from sale on these platforms.

Graham Russell, Chief Executive of OPSS, urged parents to be especially vigilant when buying costumes, particularly from online sources. He emphasised that while Halloween costumes add excitement to the festivities, the risks of fire-related incidents and strangulation hazards in some costumes can endanger children.

“Fancy dress can be an enjoyable part of Halloween, but our tests show many costumes for sale, particularly those online, pose serious risks to young children. Please take extra care before you buy,” Russell stated.

To help safeguard children, OPSS recommends purchasing costumes only from trusted sellers and always checking for potential hazards such as head or neck cords, which can pose strangulation risks. They also advise parents to keep children away from open flames and any other sources of fire when dressed in costumes, which are often more flammable than everyday clothing.

This Halloween, parents and caregivers are encouraged to choose costumes carefully and to remain mindful of safety concerns, ensuring a safer celebration for all.

Products are required to have the following labelling requirements:

• Reg 18 CE (or UKCA mark)
• Reg 19 Type, batch or serial or model number
• Reg 19 Manufacturer name, trade name or trademark
• Reg 19 Single manufacturer address
• Reg 20 Suitable instructions \ safety information
• Reg 27 Importer’s name, trade name or trademark
• Reg 27 Importer’s UK/EU address

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