In its new campaign, OPSS is providing advice to help consumers to buy safe costumes and trick or treat safely.
Look for the CE mark on the label
Fancy dress costumes should be tested for flammability. The CE mark certifies it’s been tested.
Buy from a trusted store or website
If you’re shopping online, check who you are buying from. If it’s a third-party seller, find out as much about them as you can.
This includes on the label and online. If it’s clothing for small children, check for laces, drawstrings, and small, trailing or floaty parts.
Look for ratings and reviews from other customers
Other customers may have given feedback. Be savvy.
Is it safe? Check it hasn’t been recalled
Visit productrecall.campaign.gov.uk and check the costume hasn’t been recalled. It’s quick to do and could make a big difference.
Speak up if you find an issue
You can report safety issues to the retailer, website, seller and your local Citizens Advice team.
Help spread the word
You can follow our campaign on Twitter @OfficeforSandS – use #scaresafely to retweet – or help spread the word using the materials below which are free to download and use
Print ready posters
PDF, 108KB, 1 page
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PDF, 136KB, 1 page
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Poster for immediate use
PDF, 107KB, 1 page
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PDF, 136KB, 1 page
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Print ready leaflet
PDF, 156KB, 2 pages
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PDF, 155KB, 2 pages
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Digital materials
GIF 1 – Scare safely
GIF 2 – Don’t get tricked
PNG, 54.7KB
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PNG, 55.9KB
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PNG, 43.1KB
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PNG, 55.2KB
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PNG, 42.7KB
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If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email govuk-feedback@digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.
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