Strictly star Claudia Winkleman demands crackdown after shocking Sun Online investigation reveals how Halloween costumes can erupt in flames in seconds
It comes three years after her daughter went up “like a fireball" while trick or treating
CLAUDIA Winkleman says more must be done to keep children safe at Halloween after a Sun Online investigation found supermarket costumes burst into flames within seconds.
Her call for further action comes three years after her daughter suffered life-changing burn injuries while trick or treating.
Today the Strictly Come Dancing host spoke out after seeing the results of our flammability test, carried out at Chelmsford Fire Station by Watch Manager Andre Turner using a lighter on fancy dress outfits from six major retail chains.
Despite new fire safety labels introduced this week, our investigation showed kids' costumes were extremely fast to set alight - and in some cases, dangerously quick to spread.
Claudia told The Sun Online: “I’m pleased to hear about the new guidelines the BRC have brought in and applaud all retailers who choose to follow them.
"But as these guidelines are only voluntary, they are only a first step and there is still a way to go on this issue.
"As long as children’s fancy dress costumes continue to be categorised as toys and not clothing in law, then parents must remain vigilant.
"I sincerely hope that the government continues to push for these guidelines to be made a legal requirement.
"I’d also like to thank the publications that continue to keep this in the public eye. Please stay safe this Halloween.”
Due to a quirk in EU safety regulations children’s costumes are classed as toys, rather than clothing, and carry a “CE” mark to prove they are safe.
But this means they are not subject to the strict flammability standards that regular nightwear is - meaning kids' Halloween costumes can ignite far more quickly.
It comes three years after Claudia Winkleman's daughter went up “like a fireball" while trick or treating.
Our investigation found that Halloween costumes from major retail chains were extremely fast to set alight - and in some cases, dangerously quick to spread.
Within two seconds, two of our costumes had gone up in flames - and one continued to burn until there was almost nothing left of the polyester material.
The costumes were tested by Andre Turner, Watch Manager at Essex Fire and Rescue, using a lighter.
How you can save kids' life
QUICK and calm action could help to save a child’s life if their costume catches fire like the one Claudia Winkleman’s daughter was wearing at a party in 2014.
The mantra to remember is STOP, DROP and ROLL . . .
You must STOP the child from moving, as running fans the flames.
Heat rises so DROP the child to the floor to prevent flames from reaching their face.
Next, using a rug or blanket, ROLL the child along the floor to smother the flames.
Once the flames are out you should cool the child’s body with water but do not use cold water. Ice and cold water can make burns worse.
Never peel off melted clothing, because skin could come off with it.
Finally, cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth.
While you wait for help, keep the youngster warm.
The government launched a nationwide investigation into fire safety of children’s fancy dress after the Strictly Come Dancing host launched a campaign on BBC's Watchdog urging manufacturers to take action.
Sainsbury’s increased its fire safety standards for Halloween costumes to meet the same strict standard that applies to nightwear.
Asda and Tesco also pledged more rigorous testing after Matilda's £5 supermarket-bought witch costume went up in flames.
Spot checks on children’s fancy dress costumes for sale across the UK are now subject to spot-checks by Trading Standards.
