DeKALB — The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal is encouraging residents to keep fire safety in mind when putting up Halloween and fall decorations, according to a Friday news release. 

Decorations are the first thing to catch fire in about 800 reported house fires every year, according to the National Fire Protection Association. More than two of every five of these cases occurred because decorations were too close to a heat source. 

When choosing a costume, avoid long trailing fabrics and tell children to keep away from open flames like those in jack-o-lanterns. If possible, use battery operated candles or glow sticks instead of traditional candles.

Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources and clear of any building escape routes. Provide children with flashlights for improved visibility when trick-or-treating. 

“Fall and Halloween decorations add a spooky flare to our homes but also increase the risk for accidental fires,” said Matt Perez, Illinois state fire marshal, in the news release. “Consider using battery powered or flameless candles in jack-o-lanterns. Make sure your smoke alarms are working and keep any decorations away from a heat source. Taking a few of these simple steps will help to create a spooky season that doesn’t turn into a scary situation.”