Tag: RoSPA

Hidden horrors of Halloween: Essential safety advice for families

  • RoSPA warns families about the risks of trick-or-treating, including dangerous costumes, button batteries, pumpkin-carving injuries and driving in the dark
  • Safety advice includes always checking costumes and toys for safety markings, only buying from reputable retailers and making sure children are closely supervised
  • Drivers are reminded to be extra cautious about children crossing the road during darker evenings

As children and families get ready for trick-or-treating this Halloween, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is issuing important advice to ensure the celebrations don’t become scary for the wrong reasons.

The safety charity warns that trick-or-treating in particular involves a combination of potential risks from costumes and toys, as well as crossing the road during darker evenings.

Many Halloween costumes, particularly those from online marketplaces, may present flammability risks, strangulation hazards from cords and drawstrings, and missing safety information on labels. Research by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) in 2024 found that over 80% of costumes aimed at children under seven years failed basic safety tests, including those for flammability and strangulation. Halloween costumes should always be bought from reputable retailers, and RoSPA is also reminding people that homemade costumes or those not tested to recognised flammability standards may ignite more easily and burn more quickly. 

Alongside concerns about unsafe costumes, many Halloween decorations, flashing toys and light-up accessories contain button batteries, which can cause catastrophic internal injuries within hours if swallowed.

According to the Institute of Health Visiting, two children die each year as a result of button battery incidents. Parents and carers are being urged to check that battery compartments are secure and keep products containing button batteries out of reach of young children.

Pumpkins are a common sight at Halloween, and unfortunately so are cuts from carving them. To reduce the risk of injury, RoSPA advises using purpose-designed carving tools, working on a stable surface in good lighting and always cutting away from the body. Any children taking part should be closely supervised.

Halloween celebrations also take place as darker evenings draw in. According to the Department for Transport, nearly 2,500 people were killed or seriously injured on Great Britain’s roads in October 2025. Halloween can be particularly challenging for motorists, with large numbers of children out during the evening peak period when visibility is reduced.

As well as encouraging parents and carers to accompany children and help them cross the road, RoSPA is also reminding drivers to keep an extra cautious eye out for children in residential areas.

Becky Guy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said: “Halloween should be spooky, but it should never be dangerous. From costumes and decorations to pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating after dark, there are a number of simple steps families can take to stay safe.

“We urge parents to buy products from reputable retailers, check safety information carefully and pay particular attention to products containing button batteries.

“And as children head out in the evening, we are reminding motorists to slow down and stay alert in residential areas. A moment’s extra care could prevent a serious injury.

“With a little planning and a few simple precautions, families can enjoy all the fun of Halloween while keeping themselves and others safe.”

TOP TIPS FOR A SAFE HALLOWEEN

Product Safety

  • Buy costumes, decorations and accessories from reputable retailers, particularly when shopping online.
  • Check for UKCA or CE markings.
  • Read safety instructions and warnings before use.
  • Avoid costumes with long cords, drawstrings or loose accessories which could present a strangulation hazard.
  • Ensure masks do not restrict vision and check for any small parts that may pose a choking risk.

Fire Safety

  • Keep costumes, wigs and decorations away from candles, fireplaces and other open flames.
  • Consider battery-operated candles instead of real flames in pumpkins and decorations.
  • Never leave burning candles unattended.
  • Supervise children and pets around any lit candles.

Button Battery Safety

  • Check that battery compartments are secure.
  • Keep spare and used button batteries out of reach of children.
  • Dispose of batteries safely and responsibly.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if a child is suspected of swallowing a button battery.

Pumpkin Safety

  • Always cut away from your body and avoid putting hands inside the pumpkin.
  • Use specific pumpkin-carving kits if available, or a knife with a shorter blade that’s easier to control.
  • Always carve on a stable surface in a well-lit area.
  • Make sure knife, hands and pumpkin are dry to reduce the chance of slips.
  • Never let children carve a pumpkin without close supervision.

Trick-or-Treating and Road Safety

  • Carry a torch to help children see and be seen.
  • Add reflective materials to costumes where possible.
  • Ensure children are accompanied by a responsible adult.
  • Use pavements and designated crossing points whenever possible.
  • Drivers should slow down in residential areas and remain vigilant for children who may behave unpredictably.

See more Halloween safety advice

RoSPA: Halloween Trick or RISK?

🎃 The biggest Halloween dangers aren’t monsters …

Button batteries, naked flames and unsafe products can all cause serious injuries. Halloween decorations, costumes and accessories may look fun, but it’s important to use them safely.

Before celebrating Halloween, take a few minutes to:

• Check products carefully before buying and use reputable retailers

• Keep button batteries out of children’s reach

• Keep costumes, wigs and decorations away from candles and heat sources

Find more Halloween safety advice: https://www.rospa.com/hom…/product-safety/halloween-safety

Find more Halloween safety advice:

https://www.rospa.com/hom…/product-safety/halloween-safety

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RoSPA supports Health Equals campaign

Your postcode shouldn’t determine your shelf life.

Right now, people in parts of the UK are living up to 18 years less than in others. That’s not because of bad luck or just individual choices, but because things like mouldy homes, toxic air, and the struggle to afford the basics are cutting lives short.

We are proud to support the Health Equals campaign, which is calling for a change in the law to tackle health inequalities.

Explore the campaign and find out how to get involved here:

👉https://bit.ly/4bGLDLR

RoSPA launches water safety resources ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day

RoSPA have partnered with Xylem to address one of the world’s most urgent and preventable public health challenges: drowning.

Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July, we have worked together to develop a set of free resources than can be used to promote practical advice that can help keep people across the world safe in and around water.

Covering topics like cold water shock, safety at the coast, supervision of children around water and alcohol awareness, the resources can be used by employers, families, community groups and educators to promote lifesaving information and safe behaviours around water.

The resources include leaflets and social media assets, a ready-to-use water safety presentation, and a parent-child workbook designed to help parents and carers discuss water safety with children.

Download the free resources on the RoSPA website and help your family, friends, colleagues and community to enjoy the water safely:

https://www.rospa.com/water…/xylem-water-safety-resources

#RespectTheWater

RoSPA: Preventing Future Fatalities by Optimising Road Crash Data

Every road death is one too many. Preventing future fatalities starts with understanding why collisions happen.

Our NEW report explores how improving the way road collision data is collected, shared and used can help identify risks earlier, target interventions more effectively, and ultimately save lives.

Better data means better decisions. Better decisions mean safer roads.

Read the report here⤵️

https://www.rospa.com/…/preventing-future-fatalities-by…

#RoadSafety

#VisionZero

Water Safety Scotland to host fifth free water safety open day event at Loch Lomond Shores

New Drowning Prevention Strategy to be released

  • The fifth annual World Drowning Prevention Day event returns to Loch Lomond Shores on Saturday July 25, 2026
  • The family‑friendly programme is designed to raise awareness of water safety and support national efforts to prevent drowning.
  • Event supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and Scottish Canals.

Water Safety Scotland will host its annual World Drowning Prevention Day event at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, on Saturday 25 July, 2026, offering a free, family‑friendly programme designed to raise awareness of water safety and support national efforts to prevent drowning.

Now in its fifth year, the event coincides with the launch of Scotland’s new Drowning Prevention Strategy, marking an important step forward in national efforts to prevent drowning.

The event is supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and Scottish Canals.

Attendees can look forward to a packed programme of hands‑on, family‑friendly activities, including:

  • Discovering essential, life‑saving skills through the Water Safety Code
  • Live rescue demonstrations from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Newfoundland Club rescue dogs
  • Paddleboarding and canoeing taster sessions led by Paddle Scotland and CAG Adventures
  • A variety of interactive stands, offering engaging activities and practical safety advice.

The event runs from 11.00am to 3.00pm and is open to all, with families, young people and community groups especially encouraged to attend.

Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland and Head of Policy at RoSPA, said: “Raising awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives.

“With Scotland’s new Drowning Prevention Strategy launched, World Drowning Prevention Day gives us a vital opportunity to help people understand simple actions that can keep them and others safe around water.

“We want everyone to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways, but to do so safely. Events like this offer a fun, supportive way to learn the skills and knowledge that make a real difference.”

Community Safety Minister, Kirsten Oswald, said: “The Scottish Government remains committed to promoting water safety and preventing accidents in our waterways.

“As we enjoy the summer, one that has been particularly warm, heading into the water often feels inviting, so I urge anyone planning to be in or around water to exercise caution and follow the safety advice available.

“The Water Safety Code sets out three key steps: stop and think, spot the dangers; stay together, stay close; and in an emergency, call 999.”

Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, said:  “We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it’s particularly relevant during the summer months when people are often more likely to be around water.  

“We’re delighted to be involved in this event again this year, it provides a valuable opportunity for us to have water-safety conversations with people to build the vital knowledge and skills to help people stay safer in, on and around water.” 

With Scotland’s abundance of coastlines, lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it’s absolutely vital that everyone has the opportunity to learn basic water safety skills.”

Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “We are pleased to support World Drowning Prevention Day once again and to welcome partners and communities back to Loch Lomond Shores for this important event.

“This year’s gathering comes as Scotland strengthens its national approach to drowning prevention with a new national Drowning Prevention Strategy, highlighting the importance of working together in places like the National Park, where millions of people visit every year.

“Even on the warmest days, Loch Lomond and other open water across the Park remain cold enough to trigger cold water shock, and hidden hazards or sudden changes in depth can impact the strongest swimmers. That’s why planning ahead, understanding local conditions and following the Water Safety Code remain essential for anyone spending time in or around our lochs and rivers.

“We look forward to encouraging people to respect the Loch Lomond Byelaws, to follow simple lifesaving guidance such as ‘Float to Live’, and to look out for one another. We want everyone to enjoy the National Park this summer, but to do so safely and responsibly.”

Anthony Mallon, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Station Commander and Community Safety Engagement for Prevention said: “We want people of all ages to be safe around water by understanding the risks and knowing how to prevent drowning.

“Education and drowning prevention remain central to our work to help communities safe. Our firefighters and Community Action Teams engage with community groups throughout Scotland, sharing practical advice on staying safe near water and what to do in an emergency.

“The key message for everyone is to follow the Water Safety Code: Stop and think, stay together, and in an emergency, float.”

scotlands-drowning-prevention-strategyDownload

For more information, visit: www.watersafetyscotland.org.uk

Heatwaves linked to 51 deaths as child sunburn cases surge 

  • 51 people died from excessive natural heat in the UK between 2014 and 2023 
  • 252 children required hospital treatment for sunburn injuries in 2025, a 46.5% rise since 2024 
  • Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Children’s Burns Trust (CBT) issue important advice about staying safe in the sun 

With a red weather warning issued for many parts of England, and a red heat health alert in some regions warning of a threat to life for even healthy people, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Children’s Burns Trust (CBT) are warning of the growing dangers of heatwaves. 

Research showed 51 people died from excessive natural heat in the UK between 2014 and 2023, alongside more than 1,800 hospital admissions in England over the past decade. This includes 16 fatalities during 2022, the last year a red warning was in place. 

The organisations said the risks are rising as the UK experiences more frequent and intense periods of hot weather, with children particularly vulnerable. 

Data shared by Children’s Burns Trust shows severe child sunburn injuries increased sharply in 2025, when 252 sunburn cases in children were recorded (admission to a Specialist Burns Unit), a 46.5% rise from 172 cases in 2024. 

Heatwaves place strain on the body and can quickly lead to serious harm, including heat exhaustion, dehydration and burns from prolonged sun exposure. Children are especially at risk because their skin burns more easily and they may not recognise early warning signs. 

Meteorologists warn that extreme heat is becoming more common in the UK, increasing the likelihood of preventable injuries and deaths if basic safety advice is not followed. Both organisations say many incidents could be avoided through simple precautions, particularly during peak sunlight hours. 

The two leading charities are urging families to act early during hot weather by protecting children from the sun, keeping them cool and well hydrated, and recognising the signs of heat‑related illness. 

Steve Cole, Director of Policy and Impact at RoSPA, said: “Heatwaves are no longer rare events, and the consequences are becoming clearer year on year.

“These deaths and hospital admissions are not inevitable. By following straightforward advice on sun safety, hydration and cooling down, people can dramatically reduce the risk to themselves and their families.” 

Ken Dunn BSc FRCS(Lond) FRCS(plast) FRCS(ed), Consultant Burns and Plastic Surgeon (retired) and Vice Chair at Children’s Burns Trust, said: “We are seeing a worrying rise in children experiencing sunburn, which is painful, distressing and entirely preventable.

“Simple steps like keeping children out of direct sun, covering up exposed skin and reapplying sunscreen regularly can make a real difference.” 

The organisations are advising the public to take extra care during hot weather, particularly between late morning and mid‑afternoon when the sun is strongest.

 FIRST AID  

Children’s Burns Trust helps to promote the vital message of the importance of good first aid if a burn or scald does occur:

COOL for 20 minutes under cool running water,

CALL 999 OR 111 or your GP for advice,

COVER the burn loosely with cling film. 

All statistics released by Children’s Burns Trust have been provided by the International Burn Injury Database (iBID), incorporating data collected from all NHS Burn Services in England and Wales, they do not include the minor burns and scalds that are treated by Accident and Emergency Departments. 

For more information: info@cbtrust.org.uk, https://cbtrust.org.uk/  

Accident deaths up 8%

MPs debate national accident prevention strategy after rise in deaths  

  • Accidental deaths have risen by 8% in a single year 
  • Accidents cost the UK a minimum of £12 billion a year in a combination of NHS treatment and lost economic productivity 
  • Sir Andrew Mitchell MP led the debate, highlighting that 23,000 people die a year due to preventable accidents 

MPs across the political spectrum are supporting the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA)’s call for the government to introduce a National Accident Prevention Strategy, following a Westminster Hall debate on rising accidental deaths in the UK.  

The debate, led by Sir Andrew Mitchell MP, focused on figures from RoSPA’s Annual Review of Accidents showing accidental deaths have risen by 8% in a single year, with more than 23,000 people now killed annually in preventable accidents across the UK.  

MPs from across the House, including Lee Pitcher, Sarah Olney, Jim Shannon and Greg Smith, highlighted the growing human and economic cost of accidents and and pressed the government to adopt a more coordinated approach to prevention. 

Alongside being one of the leading causes of preventable death, accidents place increasing pressure on public services.

Nearly 900,000 people – the equivalent of the entire population of Devon – are admitted to hospital due to accidents every year, costing the NHS at least £6 billion in direct treatment costs. The UK economy loses another £6 billion due to lost working days and productivity, while accidents also remove people from the workforce and drive up the benefits bill.  

Despite this, responsibility for accident prevention remains spread across multiple government departments and agencies, including transport, product safety and workplace safety, with no overarching national strategy to align efforts or track progress. 

The Westminster Hall debate follows growing concern that while prevention strategies exist for issues such as road traffic collisions or workplace injuries, there is no overarching framework to keep people safe across all aspects of their lives. 

Rebecca Hickman, chief executive of RoSPA, said: “Accidents are often treated as isolated events, but the data tells a different story.

“Rising death rates show this is a systemic issue that requires national leadership, clearer accountability and a long-term approach to prevention.” 

Sir Andrew Mitchell MP said: “The burden extends across the economy. When people are injured, they are often unable to work- sometimes temporarily, sometimes permanently.

“Families lose income; employers lose skilled workers; productivity falls. The country loses millions of working days each year due to accident-related absence. The combined cost to UK business is now estimated at about £6 billion every year. 

“Taken together, this represents a hidden but substantial cost to the country—to our health service, economy and public finances. The truth is that we can do better. Indeed, we have done better before.

“We know what works: safer homes, stronger product standards, effective public awareness campaigns, improved design of public spaces, better data collection, and co-ordinated action across Government and local agencies.” 

Stay safe in your garden this bank holiday weekend, says RoSPA  

  • In 2024/25, hospital admissions included 515 lawnmower injuries, 2,421 incidents involving non‑powered hand tools, and 5,784 injuries from powered hand tools and household machinery. 
  • In 2024/25 there were 21,234 admissions in England caused by contact with animals or plants, reflecting a 23% increase over the past decade. 
  • RoSPA has launched a garden safety checklist to help prevent injuries 

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging households to carry out basic garden safety checks ahead of the bank holiday weekend, as people prepare to spend more time outdoors.

The warning comes amid recurring injuries linked to falls, garden tools, barbecues and unsecured ponds during spring and summer peaks across the UK. 

RoSPA is advising people to inspect gardens before the weekend, focusing on trip hazards, safe use of equipment, and proper supervision of children around ponds, barbecues and firepits. The safety charity says many serious accidents are preventable with simple precautions. 

Each year, emergency departments see a rise in avoidable injuries during periods of good weather, with uneven paths, ladders, barbecues and garden tools among the most common causes. Children are particularly at risk around ponds, paddling pools and play equipment left unchecked between seasons. 

Ahead of the long weekend, RoSPA has published an updated garden safety checklist, encouraging households to:  

  • buy garden products from reputable retailers, 
  • remove debris and other trip hazards 
  • store tools and equipment securely, 
  • position ladders correctly 
  • supervise children at all times near water  

The guidance also reminds families to fence or cover water features and to securely store hazardous substances out of children’s reach. 

Rebecca Guy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said: “Gardens should be places for relaxation, but they can quickly become dangerous if basic safety checks are overlooked.   

“Warmer weather often creates a false sense of security. We see the same patterns every year: falls from ladders, burns from barbecues, and children accessing water or tools unsupervised.

“These incidents are not inevitable, and a few simple steps before the weekend can make a real difference in preventing serious injuries and keeping families safe. 

“It’s also important to resist the temptation to buy a ‘bargain’ online , as items purchased from overseas suppliers may not meet UK safety standards, particularly for garden tools, equipment and chargers.”  
 
For more information, visit the newly launched RoSPA Garden Safety webpage here: RoSPA- Garden safety 

RoSPA: Take Action Today

Thousands of children each year end up in hospital through accidental poisoning. But in Take Action Today areas, emergency admissions for under-fives have dropped by almost 50% since 2013.

Take Action Today helps parents keep their young children safe from accidental poisoning through free safety resources, checklists and fact sheets.

Join the 1 million families who have benefited from Take Action Today – access free safety resources at www.rospa.com/home-safety/household-cleaning-products

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