Halloween Costumes Mislead With "Fireproof" Claims
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As Halloween approaches, parents should be wary of misleading “fireproof” claims and make sure their kids are equipped with safe costumes. NY1's Consumer Watch reporter Asa Aarons filed the following report. Halloween is almost like an accident begging to happen: long-flowing costumes are surrounded by decorative open flame candles.
To make the holiday safer, there are federal fire standards in place for costume construction and materials.
It's important to remember that there is no such thing as “fireproof,” so don’t buy a costume labeled with such claims.
Even concrete will burn, so instead of “fireproof,” look for costumes with a chemical treatment that makes the fabric either fire-resistant or fire-retardant.
Though the specifics can vary, the bottom line is that, when put in contact with an open flame, the fabric will burn very slowly. With some, the fabric will actually self-extinguish, so the chance of a costume becoming fully enveloped in flames is reduced.
It’s still worth being careful, as that melting polyester is still bound to leave a strong local burn.
Something else to consider about the costumes is that washing them tends to take the flame-retardant treatment out, so it’s best to throw them away after use.
Finally, reduce exposure to open flames. There are very few Halloween decorations that won’t look just as good by substituting a candle with a flash or penlight.