Fire service issues warning ahead of Halloween

The fire service says Halloween is a high-risk period for fires

Householders are being encouraged to swap real candles for battery-powered alternatives this Halloween.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said around one in eight fires began with naked flames such as candles, cigarettes and matches.

The fire service said Halloween was one of the highest-risk times of year for these incidents.

Kate Saint, head of prevention at the fire service, said: "Switching from traditional candles to battery-operated ones is a simple step that can help decorations and costumes from catching fire."

"If a pumpkin with a battery-powered tealight gets knocked over, or you forget to turn it off overnight, nobody gets hurt and nothing is damaged," she added.

The service also urged people to be cautious of children's Halloween costumes, which they said could be more flammable.