In light of the upcoming celebrations of Halloween, Bonfire night and Christmas, M R Law Solicitors would like to remind you of dangers of open flames and fire.

Last Halloween the eight-year-old daughter of Strictly Come Dancing Presenter Claudia Winkleman suffered serious burns when her witch outfit caught fire from a candle. According to BBC, the TV presenter told that the tights of the outfit had “melted into her skin” and they had struggled to put the fire out. Matilda’s outfit was bought in a supermarket.

Fancy dress costumes often contain polyester which is although more fire resistant than cotton, once on fire melts and burns the skin. Based on BBC’s findings, 94 people in England were admitted to hospital in 2014 as a result of their clothing either igniting or melting. 21 out of the 94 were children under 18.

Whilst the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 ensures that all products intended for use by consumers are safe, they did not go far enough. Apart from the Nightwear (Safety) Regulations 1985 which prohibit the supply of children’s nightwear that do not meet flammability performance requirements, there has been no other specific regulation covering the safety of children’s clothing. The responsibility to supply safe goods has been left to businesses.

As a result of Claudia Winkleman’s concerns about the safety of fancy dress costumes, the Government has provided funding to local authorities nationwide to carry out trading standards investigation. Hundreds of retailers will face spot checks and fancy dress costumes will be tested for flammability to assess if they are safe for sale and meet safety standards, reports the BBC.

“Our children’s safety is paramount and we are relieved that the Watchdog investigation and Winkleman’s campaign have proven to be a success,” welcomes the news Ann Mahoney, head of Personal Injury at M R Law.

Our children’s safety is paramount and we are relieved that the Watchdog investigation and Winkleman’s campaign have proven to be a success. ~Ann Mahoney

To ensure safety of your children, Mahoney advises referring to the Chartered Trading Standards Institute guidance when buying children’s fancy dress costume:

• Check if a product has a CE marking which is a manufacturer’s declaration that the product complies with the essential requirements of the relevant European health, safety and environmental protection legislation
• Check if the label or packaging contains the manufacturer’s name, address, postcode or phone number and a registered trademark
• Check if the product has been recalled on the TSI website
• Ensure the product is accompanied by instructions and safety information

Full story: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34349261