Tag: Safety

How to stay safe on Bonfire Night if you’re having a bonfire at home

Experts at MyJobQuote.co.uk have created this guide on how to stay safe on bonfire night. Here, you will find all of the key steps needed to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe.

The following advice is helpful for those hosting a bonfire night party or creating an actual bonfire. Take a look at the advice below:

Planning a Bonfire Night Properly

If you are planning on hosting a party or creating your own bonfire this year, there are several things that you’ll need to consider and keep in mind when planning. Below are some tips for planning your bonfire night activities:

  • Always make sure you are building a bonfire that is completely stable and constructed carefully.
  • Let your neighbours know you’re planning on having a bonfire.
  • Use the correct items on the bonfire.
  • Make sure the bonfire is far away from any wildlife, trees, and structures to prevent the fire from being able to spread.
  • Keep the direction of the wind in mind on the night of the bonfire to prevent the fire from blowing and spreading to nearby wildlife or structures.
  • Ensure the bonfire is not a nuisance to anyone else, including your neighbours.
  • Keep a lookout for any nearby cables, and avoid setting up a bonfire underneath these.
  • It’s also important to set up a barrier around the bonfire to keep everyone safe. The barrier must be at least five metres around the bonfire.

How to Stay Safe at a Bonfire

  • Avoid lighting a bonfire with paraffin, petrol, diesel, white spirit, or methylated spirit. You also can’t use any of these to enhance the fire as it could be dangerous and could cause the fire to get out of control.
  • Have buckets of water or large quantities of water available nearby so that you can easily put the fire out if it gets out of control.
  • Avoid using any canisters, batteries, aerosols, or anything with foam or paint on the bonfire. Also, avoid using any wood that is treated or painted.
  • If you start to notice smoke heading towards nearby households, be ready to dampen the bonfire. This can occur if the wind changes direction.
  • Monito your bonfire throughout the entire process from start to finish. Keep a lookout at the strength and direction of the smoke to make sure it’s not an issue for people living nearby or for nearby wildlife.

How Do You Put Out a Bonfire?

When the night is over, it’s important that you completely put the bonfire out before retreating inside your home. Take the following steps to put out your bonfire properly:

  • Spray the bonfire thoroughly with water to begin putting it out. Wait until the bonfire has cooled down enough before leaving it. Make sure the bonfire can’t relight at all from any hot embers that remain. You will need to visually inspect the area and use your common sense to ensure the fire can’t possibly relight itself.
  • You should then rake the ashes into nearby soil and carefully dispose of all of the cooled-down materials. Use gloves to transport the materials for disposal, and wash your hands properly after you’ve moved everything.

Safety Tips When Using Fireworks at Home

There are some things you need to keep in mind if you are planning on lighting fireworks at your home. Take a look at the safety tips below if you are planning on launching some fireworks in your garden this year:

  • You should only ever use legal fireworks that have been purchased from a reputable supplier. In the UK, fireworks must be UKCA-marked or CE-marked. Alternatively, the fireworks should come with specific documents with these markings if they don’t have the markings on them directly.
  • Make sure you read all of the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully and follow the instructions to a T.
  • All fireworks must be suitable for being launched in the space and conditions that you have at home.
  • Avoid lighting any naked flames close to the fireworks.
  • Be sure to always point the fireworks in a safe and appropriate direction before lighting them.

Final Safety Tips For Bonfire Night

As mentioned, bonfire night should be a fun and safe experience. As long as you follow these safety tips and you always follow guidelines and manufacturer instructions, you should have no problems.

Using common sense is very important in ensuring you and your family remain safe. Keep children and pets away from open flames and fireworks. Always keep a barrier between the people and the fire, and never get too close to lit fireworks. When lighting fireworks, always step back and leave a safe distance before the fireworks launch.

There are so many fun things that you can do on bonfire night. If you are planning on having a bonfire party, take a look at this article by MyJobQuote.

In this article, you will find a range of bonfire night treat ideas as well as some additional safety tips to ensure you and your family remain safe throughout the bonfire celebrations.

RoSPA: Stay safe and avoid hazardous costumes this Halloween

Halloween can be fun when you stay safe and avoid hazardous products, that’s the message from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) ahead of the October 31.

The warning comes after several Halloween costumes have been recalled over safety fears relating to serious chemical and fire risks[1] and flagged by consumer champions Which?.

When purchasing a costume, RoSPA advises:

Look for the appropriate safety marks

In England, Scotland and Wales only buy costumes or toys which carry UKCA or CE marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol along with the UKCA or CE mark.

All parts of a Halloween costume, including wigs and face masks, should be flame-retardant in accordance with EN71 part 2 – the safety standard for flammability of toys. 

Additionally, items sold in the UK by a member of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) are likely to have been made to a higher standard of fire safety and labelled with the words ‘This garment has undergone additional safety testing for flammability.’

Beware when purchasing from unknown brands

Unknown brands or brands you can only find online may not meet the strict regulations around costume and toy safety. This could put you or your child at greater fire risk, or at risk from dangerous chemicals. Therefore, we always advise you only purchase products from known brands.

Keep away from naked flames

As with all clothing, Halloween and fancy-dress outfits should always be kept away from fire, lit candles and all other naked flames.  RoSPA advises not to have lit candles as part of Halloween celebrations, and consideration can be given to using battery-operated candles instead of real ones.

Be safe, be seen

Most Halloween costumes are dark, which can pose a risk to children when out and enjoying the festivities. If you can, provide them with a torch and add something reflective to their outfit so they can be seen by vehicles. For maximum safety, children should always be accompanied by an adult.

Phil Le Shirley, Public Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Halloween can be an exciting time for children, and we want to ensure everyone can enjoy the time safely and without any accidents.

“That’s why when it comes to dressing up, we recommend checking a Halloween costume or toy for the appropriate safety marks such as a UKCA or CE mark in England, Scotland and Wales or the UKNI symbol with the UKCA or CE mark in Northern Ireland.

“We also recognise that the darker nights reduce visibility, so advise children out trick or treating carry a torch and piece of reflective clothing to ensure they remain seen and stay safe – and always keep away from naked flames, especially when visiting other people’s homes.”

RoSPA: Stay safe and avoid hazardous costumes this Halloween

Halloween can be fun when you stay safe and avoid hazardous products, that’s the message from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) ahead of 31 October.

The warning comes after several Halloween costumes have been recalled over safety fears relating to serious chemical and fire risks and flagged by consumer champions Which?

When purchasing a costume, RoSPA advises:

Look for the appropriate safety marks

In England, Scotland and Wales only buy costumes or toys which carry UKCA or CE marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol along with the UKCA or CE mark.

All parts of a Halloween costume, including wigs and face masks, should be flame-retardant in accordance with EN71 part 2 – the safety standard for flammability of toys. 

Additionally, items sold in the UK by a member of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) are likely to have been made to a higher standard of fire safety and labelled with the words ‘This garment has undergone additional safety testing for flammability.’

Beware when purchasing from unknown brands

Unknown brands or brands you can only find online may not meet the strict regulations around costume and toy safety. This could put you or your child at greater fire risk, or at risk from dangerous chemicals. Therefore, we always advise you only purchase products from known brands.

Keep away from naked flames

As with all clothing, Halloween and fancy-dress outfits should always be kept away from fire, lit candles and all other naked flames.  RoSPA advises not to have lit candles as part of Halloween celebrations, and consideration can be given to using battery-operated candles instead of real ones.

Be safe, be seen

Most Halloween costumes are dark, which can pose a risk to children when out and enjoying the festivities. If you can, provide them with a torch and add something reflective to their outfit so they can be seen by vehicles. For maximum safety, children should always be accompanied by an adult.

Phil Le Shirley, Public Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Halloween can be an exciting time for children, and we want to ensure everyone can enjoy the time safely and without any accidents.

“That’s why when it comes to dressing up, we recommend checking a Halloween costume or toy for the appropriate safety marks such as a UKCA or CE mark in England, Scotland and Wales or the UKNI symbol with the UKCA or CE mark in Northern Ireland.

“We also recognise that the darker nights reduce visibility, so advise children out trick or treating carry a torch and piece of reflective clothing to ensure they remain seen and stay safe – and always keep away from naked flames, especially when visiting other people’s homes.”

PDSA saves tennis-loving dog who swallowed two balls

Charity vets urge owners to trade tennis balls for safer toys following Wimbledon final

A tennis ball-obsessed dog from Wolverhampton got himself into a spot of bother after taking his hobby too far and swallowing two balls whole; leaving him needing life-saving surgery from vet charity PDSA.

Loki, a five-year-old crossbreed, landed himself in trouble after a game of fetch with his loving owner Amy, ended in disaster and an emergency trip to Wolverhampton PDSA Pet Hospital.

Amy explained: “Loki is a high-energy dog and he loves nothing more than a game of fetch. Most of his toys are the ‘super strong’ ones – he’s a gentle giant, but his toys don’t last long if they aren’t tough ones. But his favourites are tennis balls, he’s obsessed.

“It was only when Loki refused to eat, and started being sick, we realised something was wrong. He was still active and playful, but it’s not like Loki to pass up some food! When the sickness didn’t stop we called PDSA, and they told us to bring him straight in for an appointment.”

Luckily for Loki, the charity’s Wolverhampton team acted fast and an x-ray revealed the problem: two whole balls inside his stomach.

PDSA Vet Catherine Burke said: “Our vet teams treat ball related injuries every year, which can quickly turn into a life threatening situation. Loki’s situation was a case of life-or-death – without surgery, he would likely have died. One of the balls was lodged in his stomach, preventing him from keeping food down.

Loki was taken into theatre and his emergency operation was a success; PDSA’s vets managed to remove both balls intact.

But the charity is using Loki’s story to warn other owners that a bit of innocent fun with a tennis ball can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation. It’s best all round to trade out the tennis balls for safer toys.

Catherine added: “If your dog loves to chew, there is also the risk they could swallow chewed up parts of the tennis ball; which can still cause the same issues with gut blockage like in Loki’s case.”

Following the surgery, Loki is recovering well and, according to Amy, he is back to his fun, playful self.

It’s not unusual to see dogs running after and catching tennis balls. In particular at this time of year, with Wimbledon in full swing, tennis lovers may wish to play a game of fetch with their four-legged friends.

Catherine shares some of the dangers associated with tennis balls: “If your dog is a tennis ball enthusiast, they may not wish to part with their beloved toy, however there are a few important reasons they are not the best option for dogs, quite apart from the fact that they won’t last long under most dog’s jaws.

“The size of tennis balls, and the way they bounce, means that there is a risk the ball can get stuck at the back of your dog’s throat, causing them to choke. It can become wedged in position too far in for you to remove it, blocking your dog’s airway, which sadly can be fatal if the ball can’t be removed quickly.

“If this does happen, try to keep calm and if safe to do so, you can attempt to remove it from the back of the mouth. However it can be very slippery and difficult to remove. If you can’t remove it, contact your vet immediately for an emergency appointment.

“Tennis balls are covered in a felt layer; which has the appearance of yellow-green fuzz and is abrasive which means it has a sandpaper-like effect. Over time it can wear down your dog’s teeth and cause pain and difficulty chewing.”

Instead of tennis balls, PDSA recommends toys and balls specifically designed for dogs, as these are less likely to fall apart when chewed.

Make sure any ball you choose is the right size for your dog, to avoid potentially fatal choking incidents or intestinal blockage – they should be big enough to be grabbed with the teeth and carried, but not fit perfectly in the mouth.

Depending on the kind of activity your dog enjoys doing, here’s a guide to the best toy to match:

  • Tugging: rope toys and rubber rings are great for tugging games.
  • Retrieving: Balls of a safe size that they can’t choke on.
  • Searching: hide their kibble or treats in snuffle mats.

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, through its 48 Pet Hospitals across the UK, the charity saves the lives of poorly pets whose owners would otherwise struggle to afford treatment.

In times of hardship pets like Loki will still fall ill or become injured and need emergency care. PDSA is appealing for donations so that the charity can continue to support owners who have nowhere else to turn by providing life-saving care to vulnerable pets.

To donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk

National sight loss charity calls for street credibility

Urgent action must be taken to improve street design and accessibility for blind and partially sighted pedestrians says the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Scotland in their latest report, ‘Street Credibility’.

The new report explores critical areas of concern to street accessibility and safety, a topic which the charity has long campaigned for improvements in. Inaccessible streets can impact mental health too, the report claims, as many blind or partially sighted pedestrians feel anxious or unable to navigate the outdoors safely.

“Negative experiences can really knock your confidence, when out and about,” says Angela Clelland from Inverness. “We’ve come out of a pandemic, but when spaces and streets aren’t accessible, people stop going out and this impacts on their mental health too.”

The reports outlines more about the hazards of street clutter and obstructed pavements, the importance of kerbs and signalised controlled crossings, and the ability for pedestrians to avoid moving vehicles. All these are key to keeping all pedestrians, not just those who are blind and partially sighted, safe.

Edinburgh resident, Sylvia Paton said: “There’s no urgency given when a crossing facility is broken for pedestrians.

” It’s imperative that controlled crossing points are maintained. If not it’s a disaster waiting to happen.”

RNIB Scotland director James Adams adds: “All too often our streets are an obstacle course for blind and partially sighted people. We can all play a part in safe streets for everyone. It may sound simple, but we must not ignore the difference that small changes can make to people’s safety and confidence.

“This report is a valuable guide for the decision makers, urban planners, and community leaders who are tasked with creating streets that are inclusive and accessible to all.” 

The Street Credibility report has been released amidst a wave of initiatives that are driving changes to Scotland’s streetscapes, following significant delays during the pandemic.

While most of these changes are positive and support the country’s net-zero goals, such as improving walking and cycling infrastructure, the inconsistent street design and enforcement negatively affect the independence and ability of blind and partially sighted people to access their work, community, and vital services like healthcare.

To address these challenges, the report draws on the policy landscape and research, as well as direct experiences, to establish a consensus on what constitutes inclusive street design for individuals with sight loss.

There are over 180,000 people in Scotland with significant sight loss.

*To read the Street Credibility report in full, visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/news/rnib-scotland-calls-for-street-credibility/

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Drowning and Incident Review becomes available across Scotland

An innovative system has launched this week to reduce accidental drowning deaths by analysing the circumstances around past water-related fatalities, in what has been hailed one of the world’s first.

The Drowning and Incident Review (DIR) has been created by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), in partnership with Water Safety Scotland (WSS). It aims to reduce accidental drowning deaths by 50 per cent by 2026 and lessen the risk among the highest risk populations, groups and communities.

Until now, the circumstances in many water-related fatalities have been unknown and the risk factors are unclear. On average, 96 people lose their lives due to a water-related fatality each year in Scotland.

The principal aim of the DIR is to gather all relevant data and information in order to systematically review each accidental water-related incident with a view to prevent a future occurrence.  The review has been piloted extensively and evaluated with a recent publication in BMJ Injury Prevention.

The benefits of DIR are anticipated at both local and national level in Scotland. It will provide insight into water-based risks by local area, ensuring that those best placed to mitigate these risks are involved in the process and kept informed. Nationally, the enhanced data capture is anticipated to lead to the development of better-informed national strategies to tackle the issue of drowning prevention.

Carlene McAvoy, Leisure Safety Manager of RoSPA and founder and secretariat of Water Safety Scotland said: “DIR has been specifically created for Scotland and is one of the first of its type in the world.  

“It will be used as an important tool in Scotland to enable learning from incidents and mitigate the risk of future incidents. This supports the overarching aim of Scotland’s Drowning Prevention Strategy, to reduce accidental drownings by 50 per cent by 2026.”

James Sullivan, Station Commander at SFRS and chair of Water Safety Scotland, added: “DIR provides a clear and consistent format for partners to review water related incidents and gain an understanding of contributory factors. 

“This enhanced knowledge will enable a focussed approach to be taken on preventative measures both locally and nationally throughout Scotland”.

DIR is endorsed by lead Search & Rescue Partners; Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland (PS), His Majesty’s Coastguard (HMCG), and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) as well as key partners in Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) and Public Health Scotland (PHS).

The DIR process goes live this week and can be used via Water Safety Scotland for any accidental related fatality.

Briggs ‘deep concern’ over 83 “red flagged” addresses for ambulances across Lothian

Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP for Lothian, Miles Briggs, has expressed “deep concern” over addresses that have been “red flagged” to ambulance staff across Scotland.

The concern comes amid reports that nearly 450 addresses have been identified as being “red flagged” for ambulance staff – whereby Scottish Ambulance Staff are not allowed to enter without the presence of police.

A Freedom of Information Request submitted by the Scottish Conservatives revealed the shocking statistics.

The highest number of red flagged addresses come with Glasgow and Edinburgh postcodes, with 107 and 83 addresses identified in these areas, respectively.

In the EH postcode area, the freedom of information request revealed that 83 warnings had been identified.

Mr. Briggs has highlighted concerns over the figures and has expressed doubt of how police and ambulance staff may link up, given that, under the SNP, police officer numbers in Scotland are at their lowest level for 15 years.

Mr. Briggs says that one attack on an emergency service worker in Lothian is one too many and more action must be taken to keep them safe.

Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP Miles Briggs said: “These figures are deeply concerning.

“This is a significant number of addresses that have been red-flagged in Lothian for our dedicated ambulance staff who are putting themselves at risk for others on a daily basis.

“One attack on any ambulance worker in Lothian is one too many.

“This is a direct result of the SNP slashing local budgets and gutting the police service across the country.

“With police officer numbers at their lowest number since 2008 across Scotland, I am also concerned that they may not be able to easily link up with ambulance crews when called upon at a particular address.

“It is clear from the number of addresses that have been red-flagged in Lothian that more needs to be done to keep our ambulance staff safe, which includes handing out hefty punishments to those found to have assaulted them while they are on duty.

“At the very least, frontline staff in Lothian should be reassured that they can go about their work without serious risk of injury from members of the public.”

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NICEIC offers safety advice ahead of Hogmanay

HOGMANAY is always a popular night for gathering, and after a couple of years of scaled back celebrations, this year’s NYE is expected to be a big one.

If you’re having a night in and choosing to host a party, it’s important to ensure electrical safety is upheld, even when you’re caught up in the festivities of the evening. Research carried out by NICEIC concluded that 42% of homeowners pay more attention to aesthetics over safety. People are easily preoccupied with planning the event, and can be focused on how everything looks, but NICEIC is putting safety back at the top of the agenda.

Paul Collins, Head of Technical Services at NICEIC, advises: “When decorating for your New Year’s party, its crucial to check any decorative lights for damage and ensure that you don’t hang additional festoons from fairy lights.

“Many decorations are highly flammable and attaching them to your lights is a fire hazard. Also, be mindful to not overload any socket-outlets or extension leads when hooking up sound systems or maybe that extra wine cooler.

“If you’re hosting the festivities in your garden, take care that any outside socket-outlets are RCD protected for safety. An RCD (residual current device) works by switching off the flow of electricity should something go wrong. In addition, any electricals used should be suitable for outdoor use and avoid trailing wires through windows and doors.

“Finally, make sure lights are turned off when you’re out, or asleep, to avoid them over-heating and to save on your energy bills. New Year’s Eve is supposed to be a night to celebrate and we don’t want your evening (or potentially your home) ruined by an unsafe home.”

For more information or to search for a NICEIC certified business in your area, visit niceic.com.

Don’t Blow Christmas campaign: Warning over fake electrical products

Online traders selling counterfeit will be trying to fool even more people into buying fakes this year.

The new #DontBlowChristmas campaign from Intellectual Property Office UK helps consumers know the risks and learn how to spot a fake

Kelsey Jones, Senior Outreach and Engagement Advisor of the IPO’s Enforcement team gives advice to consumers to help them stay safe from counterfeit electrical goods this festive period:

Image of fake airpods, with text reading 'saved £40 on cheap airbuds' 'lost sound within minutes.' 'Fake electrical products are not reliable. Don't Blow Christmas

With prices dropping across retail and Christmas around the corner, Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be irresistible. Because who doesn’t want to make their Christmas savings to go even further?

But did you know that you could be targeted by online traders selling counterfeit goods?

Fake electrical products, also known as counterfeits, are everywhere, targeting you on e-commerce sites you know and trust or appearing as you scroll through your go-to social media channels​. Think fake AirBuds, straighteners, hairdryers, phone chargers.

Dodgy sellers will be trying to fool even more people into buying fakes this year, knowing that lots of us are looking for a bargain. They may look like the real deal, but counterfeits are often poor-quality imitations that aren’t guaranteed to work and can be dangerous. You might save a few pounds, but at what cost?​

Use these tips to stay smart, stay savvy and stay safe​.

Don’t buy fakes​. Don’t blow Christmas.

Tips to avoid being duped into purchasing counterfeit products

1) Vet the seller

Do they look official? Have you bought from this seller before, is the website or platform well known? Does the seller have a returns policy? If you are in doubt, look for a genuine online review, not just recommendations from influencers to buy the item.

2) Avoid payments by bank transfer

Always beware of retailers asking for payment to be made via bank transfer. Well known credit card providers like Visa or Mastercard, and services like PayPal offer protection to buyers if the goods don’t arrive or are proven to be counterfeit.

3) Trust your instincts

Does the item on offer look and feel like an authentic product? Sellers of counterfeits often make spelling mistakes in their descriptions and sometimes on the products themselves, which is an obvious warning sign. Spelling and grammar mistakes can indicate fakes!

4) Look for EU and UK safety markings

The safety standards of counterfeit items are poor and can be dangerous, especially when they are shipped from abroad. Do items have EU and UK safety markings? You should always check for the correct age restrictions and hazard warnings on the packaging.

5) Question the price if much cheaper than elsewhere

Whether buying online or in person, always think about the price. Scammers often sell counterfeit goods at discounted prices to make you drop your guard. If the item is significantly cheaper than you’d expect, that’s a good reason for alarm bells to ring. If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Image of hair straighterns and damage after fire with text reading 'saved £50 on dodgy hair straighteners' 'lost £45k in damages.'

If you or someone you know has purchased a counterfeit product or suspects that a website is selling counterfeit products, report it to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers or call 0800 555 111.

Follow @dontblowchristmas on your socials for more advice and guidance on staying safe and avoiding disappointment this Christmas.

Dogs Trust issues Howl-oween Advice 

Halloween can be a scary time of year not just for those participating in trick or treating, but for dogs, who may find unexpected knocks at the door and people dressed in costumes unsettling.

Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, is sharing its top tips for dog owners to help their pets have a safe and happy Halloween. 

Susan Tonner, Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder said: “Halloween can be fun for all the human members of the family, but for dogs it can be a frightening time of the year.

“Your dog may be exposed to many unfamiliar sights and sounds, and they could easily become overwhelmed by the number of knocks at the door from people they don’t recognise, combined with being unnerved by the sound of any fireworks.” 

There are lots of simple steps you can take to help keep your dog safe and happy this Halloween with Dogs Trust’s top tips: 

·       Adapt your routine in order to miss the costumes and fireworks  

It’s a good idea to head out before any festivities may begin and take extra tasty treats with you. If you spot any trick or treaters whilst you’re out, head away from them and reward your dog with a treat whilst you turn around to avoid any ghoulish encounters that might scare your dog.  

In the weeks leading up to Halloween, gradually change your dog’s routine by walking them earlier in the day to allow them time to exercise and toilet before dark. With more people out at night than normal, it’s best to keep your dog at home and in sight for safe keeping, whilst ensuring microchip details are kept up to date with the database in case they vanish out of the door during a trick or treat visit. Your dog also needs to wear an ID tag on their collar. 

·       Ensure your dog is comfortable 

Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried. This should be a quiet and cosy familiar place in the house that will give them the chance to relax undisturbed.  

Some dogs may cope better by seeking reassurance, so give them attention and comfort if they seek this out and try to stay with them in the room they are most comfortable, so they know they aren’t alone. 

For other dogs who may not appear worried, it’s good to keep them occupied with their favourite items or activities. Experiment before the firework and spooky evenings begin, and slowly introduce them, to find out what your dog will enjoy the most.    

·       Keep human treats and sweets safely out of your dog’s reach 

Many human treats, especially chocolate, are toxic to dogs. It’s safest to keep these treats well out of your dog’s reach, and in case they accidently sneak a human treat, you can teach your dog to leave it before the trick or treaters start knocking.  

·       Be careful when opening doors so your dog doesn’t accidentally escape 

Before Halloween arrives, think about your dog’s access to the door. Popping your dog on a lead before you open the door or ensuring they don’t have access to the door when trick or treaters pop by will help to keep them safe. If you can’t close off access to your door, you can teach your dog to wait at doorways, decreasing the chance of your dog running out the door or jumping up at trick or treaters. 

·       Keep the costumes and dressing up for humans only 

Adding a new and unfamiliar item for your dog to wear can cause them to be uncomfortable. You should also be aware of anything that could cause abrasions or irritations, resulting in your dog overheating, or stopping them from expressing normal behaviour. 

·       Feed your dog their main meals before the trick or treating begins so they can eat at a relaxed time 

You could save a small portion of their food to prepare some food-based enrichment activities for later in the evening, to help keep them calm and relaxed. 

·       Think twice about taking your dog out trick or treating 

Even dogs who aren’t fazed by people dressed up and all the excitement involved with Halloween may not enjoy it for as long as you do. They might prefer to be at home in their safe and comfy space with their favourite enrichment activity and toys. 

Halloween is the start of a disruptive and noisy week for dogs with fireworks also happening in the lead up to Bonfire Night.  

Susan adds: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them.

“Following the recent news that firework displays that are run by local councils have been cancelled in some parts of the UK, there may be a rise in people hosting private firework displays at home.  

“We urge dog owners to be extra prepared for a rise in neighbourhood displays, and to look at our full guidance on how to help their dogs stay safe and settled during fireworks. Private firework displays may not be limited to one night, so it is very important for all dog owners to seek out advice early, in order to have a comfortable fireworks season with their dog.” 

For guidance on how to help your dog cope during fireworks, visit the Dogs Trust website  

If you are planning to host a firework display at home: 

·       Let your neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs.  

·       Limit your display to 30 minutes or less.  

·       Opt for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.   

For some fun, dog friendly ideas for a ‘cosy night in’, try our pumpkin treats. 

For further information on keeping your dog safe and happy at Halloween, please head to our website: Halloween advice | Dogs Trust