With Halloween approaching, OPSS is calling for public vigilance following the findings. More than 80% of Halloween costumes intended for young children do not meet basic safety standards.

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

The tests, carried out on items sourced from various online markets, showed that many costumes did not meet the requirements set out in the Toy Safety Regulations 2011. In response, OPSS ensured that all unsafe items identified during testing were withdrawn from sale on these platforms.

Graham Russell, chief executive of OPSS, urged parents to be extra vigilant when buying costumes, particularly from online sources. He pointed out that while Halloween costumes add excitement to the festivities, the risks of fire incidents and strangulation hazards in some costumes can put children at risk.

“Costumes can be a fun part of Halloween, but our tests show that many costumes for sale, especially online, pose serious risks to young children. Please take extra care before purchasing,” Russell said.

To help protect children, OPSS recommends buying costumes only from trusted sellers and always checking for potential hazards, such as cords around the head or neck, which can pose a strangulation risk. They also advise parents to keep children away from open flames and any other sources of fire when wearing costumes, which are often more flammable than everyday clothes.

This Halloween, parents and caregivers are encouraged to choose costumes carefully and stay alert to safety issues, ensuring a safer holiday for all.

Products must have the following labeling requirements:

• Reg 18 CE (or UKCA mark)
• Reg 19 Type, lot or series or model number
• Reg 19 Manufacturer’s name, trade name or trade mark
• Reg 19 Manufacturer’s unique address
• Reg 20 Appropriate instructions \ safety information
• Reg 27 Importer’s name, trade name or trade mark
• Reg 27 UK/EU importer address

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