It's not ghouls that are spooking some parents this Halloween, but the potential fire risk of children's costumes.
Halloween costumes are not covered by the government's flammable safety standards. Photo: 123RF
Under government guidelines children's pyjamas and toys must meet flammable safety standards, but Halloween costumes aren't covered.
Martin Rushton, from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Trading Standards, said current rules were specific to nightwear fabric that was more likely to be worn near a heater or open fire.
In the United Kingdom safety measures were introduced after the daughter of a high profile television presenter was severely burnt when her costume caught alight.
Retail New Zealand's Greg Harford said businesses were conscious of safety risks and followed current guidelines. However there are no mandatory regulations and businesses might benefit from further guidelines, he said.
He hoped any changes to current standards would be in line with Australia.
Mr Harford said recent changes to the rules around the materials and labelling of children's nightwear were a logistical headache for retailers.
"New Zealand retailers were put in a position where all of a sudden they had to re-label products in some cases, come to special arrangements with suppliers. The reality is that New Zealand and Australia for many forms of clothing are one market."
The Warehouse had clear labelling on packaging and products to alert customers, a spokesperson said.
"In addition, we apply similar restrictions to garment styling as per the nightwear standard to children's costumes."
Mr Rushton said the best way to prevent accidents with children was for parents and caregivers to know the types of risks and provide proper supervision.
Fire Safety Management national advisor Peter Gallagher said parents could help by choosing safer outfits.
"The best type of costume is one that's close fitting, as that reduces the risk of ignition."
Parents could also look for costumes made from low fire-risk materials, he said.
