Danger in Disguise: What to Do If a Halloween Costume or Decoration Causes Injury

 Halloween should be fun—not a trip to the emergency room. But every year defective seasonal products — overly flammable costumes, unsafe lighting, or contaminated face paint — cause serious injuries. When that happens in Virginia, victims have options. Here’s what to watch for, when you may have a product liability claim, and the immediate steps to protect your rights.

Common defects in Halloween gear

Flammable fabrics and costumes

Many mass-produced costumes are made from inexpensive textiles that can ignite and burn quickly. Federal flammability standards (16 C.F.R. Part 1610) apply to clothing textiles and are enforced under the Flammable Fabrics Act; when those standards aren’t met, garments pose a burn risk.

Unsafe lighting and extension cords

Cheap LED displays, low-quality extension cords, or decorations placed near heat sources can create fire and shock hazards. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) issues seasonal safety guidance reminding consumers to keep decorations away from open flames and heat.

Toxic or contaminated makeup and face paints

Tests have found heavy metals (like lead, arsenic, nickel) in some costume cosmetics and face paints — ingredients that can cause skin reactions or longer-term harm, especially for children.

https://www.hiltonsomer.com/danger-in-disguise-what-to-do-if-a-halloween-costume-or-decoration-causes-injury/

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