How you can help keep your kids safe from fire this Halloween

Glowing jack-o'-lanterns, bubbling cauldrons and elaborate costumes can help make for a festive Halloween, but the Illinois State Fire Marshal has some tips to share to ensure things don't get really scary.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that decorations were the first thing to ignite in roughly 800 reported home fires each year, frequently because decorations were too close to a heat source like a candle or hot equipment.

"Halloween is an exciting time for kids, and talking to them about fire safety before heading out to search for all the yummy goodies is extremely important," Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera said in a news release. "Explain and guide your trick-or-treaters away from any open flames in jack-o'-lanterns and keep their costumes away from a heating source. Use glow sticks to add an even spookier feel to your jack-o'-lanterns helping trick-or-treaters visiting your porch stay safe."

Here are a few tips from the fire marshal's office for a safe, fire-free Halloween:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o'-lanterns.

• When choosing costumes, avoid long trailing fabric.

• If your children are wearing a costume mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can see out.

• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o'-lanterns with candles in them.

• Be sure children know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.

• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.

• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costume.

• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.

• Make sure all smoke alarms are working.