Parents warned over potentially unsafe Halloween products

The items, a moulded alien mask and a pack of plastic vampire teeth, were flagged by Hampshire Trading Standards after failing safety tests.

Both products, imported into the UK, were identified at an inland clearance facility and tested by Hampshire County Council’s Scientific Services laboratory.

The alien mask posed a suffocation risk due to insufficient ventilation, while the vampire teeth presented a choking hazard from small parts designed to be placed in the mouth.

Kirsty North, deputy leader of Hampshire County Council and executive member for universal services, said: "As excitement builds for spooky costumes and trick-or-treating, it’s important to keep safety in mind, particularly when buying products for children.

"The discovery of safety issues with these two products by our Trading Standards team shows why consumers should stay alert, look for the UKCA marking where required, and buy from trusted retailers.

"This is another example of the valuable work our Trading Standards officers do every day to prevent potentially harmful goods from reaching consumers, helping to protect Hampshire residents."

The products have been recorded on the UK Government’s Product Safety Database and will be listed in safety notices to alert consumers and enforcement authorities.

Hampshire Trading Standards has also issued guidance to help families enjoy a safe and fun Halloween.

They advise parents to check that children’s costumes, face paints, wigs, and masks carry a UKCA or CE mark, confirming they meet safety standards.

It is also important to avoid unlabelled or counterfeit items and to keep costumes away from naked flames at all times.

Parents are also encouraged to buy only from trusted retailers when shopping online for Halloween outfits and accessories.

Battery-operated products like tealights should have child-safe battery compartments, as button batteries can cause serious internal injuries if swallowed.

Sweets should be checked to ensure they are age-appropriate and safe for children with allergies.

Trick-or-treaters are also advised to wear colourful costumes, carry torches, and have someone in your group wear a hi-vis vest to stay visible.

Children should be kept off the road and have their hands held when crossing.

Anyone who suspects a product is unsafe or experiences an issue is encouraged to report it to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133 or through their online consumer helpline.

More information about Hampshire County Council’s Trading Standards service can be found at www.hants.gov.uk/business/tradingstandards/consumeradvice.