Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night; there’s a lot to celebrate this Autumn. However, with the celebrations come the risk of fire.
In 2025/26, there were 844 fires in England caused by candles and with Candle Fire Safety Week approaching (26 October to 1 November), Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is taking the opportunity to remind people to celebrate Halloween, Bonfire Night and Diwali safely.
Paul Scott, Prevention Manager at RBFRS, said: “Candles, decorations, fireworks and bonfires are widely used to celebrate at this time of year, and we want you to enjoy these celebrations. However, to enjoy them everyone needs to be safe.
“The safest option is to use LED or battery-operated candles instead of real candles, particularly around children, pets, costumes and decorations. If you do use real candles, always place them securely on a stable, heat-resistant surface, keep them well away from anything that could catch fire, and never leave them unattended.
“For Bonfire Night and Diwali, we always strongly recommend that people attend organised firework displays rather than setting off fireworks at home. Organised events have appropriate safety measures in place to keep you safe. Remember, fireworks are extremely dangerous if not used properly.
“If a fire does start, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service. If you’re in a costume that catches fire, make sure you Stop, Drop and Roll to smother the flames.”
Follow our steps to keep you and your loved ones safe during this season’s celebrations.
Candles and Halloween Costumes:
- Always place candles in a proper holder on a heat resistant surface.
- Keep the flame at a safe distance from flammable materials such as curtains and keep long hair and clothing away from the flame.
- Never leave lit candles unattended – extinguish them before going to sleep or leaving the room.
- Place candles out of reach of children and pets.
- Consider using flameless candles, such as LED or battery operated ones – they are much safer.
- Take extra care if wearing costumes this Halloween. Make sure you purchase fire-resistant costumes (check the label!) and always keep well away from candles and open flames.
- Due to the materials that some decorations are made from, they can be a potential fire hazard.
- Check that any fairy lights carry the British Safety Standard kitemark sign.
- Never attach decorations to lights or heaters.
- Only buy fireworks with a UKCA or CE mark from reputable retailers.
- Don’t set off fireworks when under the influence of alcohol.
- Keep fireworks stored in a closed box.
- Never go near a firework that has been lit – even if it has gone off, it could still explode.
- Follow the instructions on each firework.
- Never put fireworks in pockets or throw them.
- When lighting fireworks, always use a taper at arm’s length.
- Stand well back.
- Never give sparklers to children under the age of five.
- Always supervise children around fireworks.
- Only light sparklers one at a time, and wear gloves.
- Be considerate to animals when letting off fireworks – let neighbours know in advance so they can care for pets.
- Ensure firework displays are over by midnight (the cut off time by law).
- Once the firework debris has cooled down, tidy it up and soak in water overnight before putting it in a rubbish bag in the bin.
- Build bonfires well away from buildings, fences, trees, major roads and motorways.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
- Check that animals are not inside the bonfire before lighting.
- Stand well back.
- Always supervise children around bonfires.
- Never use petrol or paraffin on fires – the flames can quickly become out of control.
- Do not burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint – these may produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode, causing injuries.
- Never leave bonfires unattended.
For more safety information, visit the Service’s website.