With Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night approaching, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to be safe.

The service has expressed concerns about fancy dress costumes, currently classified as toys and not required to be flame resistant or flame retardant.

This classification has raised worries about the ease of access to cheaper costumes from new overseas companies.

The fire service is encouraging people to check that their costumes have the correct CE labelling. This labelling means the costume complies with EN71-2, meeting the European flammability resistant requirement for toys.

There is also a swing label which will read "This garment has undergone additional safety testing for flammability." It means that BRC testing has been carried out.

It is advised to check if any old costumes are still fit for purpose, as standards may have changed.

Prevention delivery manager Vikki Thomas said: "We would like to encourage everyone to have a fun Hallowe'en but to also stay safe.

"House fires and fires involving costumes can have a devastating outcome and we want to ensure everyone knows how to keep their family safe."

The service has provided tips to reduce the risk of fire during Hallowe'en.

These include checking product labels for a CE mark, buying costumes from reputable retailers, and wearing clothes underneath costumes to provide a layer between the skin and costume.

The service also advises avoiding costumes with capes or sections that hang off the garment, as these could be a fire risk.

Other suggestions for reducing fire risk include not letting children go near ignition sources, such as sparklers, which can burn at up to 2,000 degrees Celsius.

Replacing candles in pumpkins with battery powered candles, and ensuring candles are securely placed in correct holders, away from curtains, cushions, and draughts are other suggestions.

Candles should also be extinguished before going to bed.

The fire service also advises teaching children the "stop, drop, and roll" method in case their clothing catches fire.

In an emergency, burns should be cooled with large amounts of water and urgent medical assistance should be sought.

For those using decorative lights in the home, the fire service advises ensuring electricity sockets are not overloaded and are switched off at night.

The Fireworks Code should also be adhered to.

The fire service's website also features fun seasonal activities designed to help young children understand how to stay safe during Hallowe'en.

These can be found on the DWFire website.