- Western Australians urged to check Halloween products before use
- Button batteries, flammable costumes and novelty make-up pose safety risks
- Cook Labor Government encouraging simple checks to help prevent injuries
Families preparing for fun Halloween activities are being urged to take extra care when buying costumes, decorations, toys and novelty items, with some products posing hidden safety risks.
Consumer Protection, a division of the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety, warns that despite mandatory standards, bans, and recall requirements, unsafe items can still reach the market.
Some products may be affected by poor manufacturing, missing safety labels or have non-compliant designs.
Button battery-powered products remain a key concern and are typically found in novelty toys, torches, wands and flashing decorations like jack-o-lanterns and fake candles. If swallowed, button batteries can cause life-threatening injuries and may burn through tissue in as little as two hours.
When buying button battery operated products, parents and guardians are urged to check that the battery compartment is secured and ensure the item is robust enough to be dropped without breaking.
If you think a child has swallowed a button battery you should call the Poisons Information Centre immediately on 13 11 26.
Costumes, wigs and other accessories can also present hazards if they are not flame resistant, while face paints, fake blood, temporary tattoos, and other cosmetic products may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation if ingredient information is missing or unclear.
The Cook Labor Government is encouraging consumers to carefully inspect all Halloween products before use, check safety labels and warnings and choose costumes that are visible when trick-or-treating after dark.
For more information on how to keep your family safe, visit the Consumer Protection website: https://www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au/publications/halloween-safety-tips
As stated by Commerce Minister Dr Tony Buti:
“Halloween is becoming an increasingly popular tradition to celebrate in Western Australia, but it is important to be aware of some of the hidden safety risks associated with costumes, decorations and novelty products.
“Button batteries remain one of the most serious hazards so it’s important that battery compartments are secure before giving products to children.
“If wearing black or other dark-coloured costumes, add glow sticks or a reflective strip and carry a torch to ensure drivers and pedestrians can see you.
“While we cannot actively regulate the safety of every product entering WA, we can educate consumers about how to identify unsafe products.
“It’s great to see children with their families dressing in costumes and having fun but a few simple checks will ensure the night is memorable for all the right reasons.”
