COLUMBUS, Ohio - As families across Ohio prepare to celebrate Halloween festivities this week, the Ohio Department of Commerce Divisions of State Fire Marshal, Cannabis Control and Liquor Control are sharing seasonal safety tips to help families enjoy the holiday safely and responsibly. With more activities, gatherings, decorations, and costumes in play this time of year, there are several important safety considerations to keep in mind to ensure celebrations remain enjoyable and safe for everyone.

Fire Safety Reminders
Halloween is one of the busiest days of the year for home fires nationwide. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are approximately 830 home structure fires each year involving decorations, with nearly half starting due to flammable items being placed too close to heat sources. Across Ohio, firefighters respond to dozens of home fires around Halloween annually, many of which are preventable.

"Halloween is a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and enjoy the season," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "A little awareness goes a long way. By keeping decorations away from open flames and making smart choices with costumes and lighting, Ohioans can help ensure their celebrations stay festive and fire-free."

The Division recommends that Ohioans keep the following fire safety tips in mind:

Decorations

• Keep all decorations, especially anything made from flammable materials, far away from heat sources.
• Use battery-powered candles or LED lighting rather than open-flame candles in pumpkins and other displays.
• Make sure all electrical décor is UL-listed and that cords are in good condition and not frayed.
• Avoid overloading extension cords and do not place them under rugs.

Costumes

• Select costumes and accessories that are flame-resistant.
• Make sure costumes do not have loose or trailing fabrics that could brush against a flame.
• Add reflective tape or carry glowsticks or flashlights to increase visibility at night.

Trick-or-Treating Safety

• Ensure walkways, steps, and porches are clearly lit and free of obstacles.
• Replace any burned-out exterior lightbulbs to ensure proper exterior lighting.
• Keep pumpkins, props, and decorations out of high-traffic areas to prevent potential trips and falls.

Ohioans can find more fire safety information and resources by visiting com.ohio.gov/fire.

Alcohol Safety Reminders
To ensure the safe consumption of alcohol this Halloween, permit holders and of-age adults are reminded to follow state liquor laws. Ohioans are encouraged to report underage drinking, overserving, and after-hour alcohol sales to the Ohio Investigative Unit or local law enforcement. Consumers can use the Division of Liquor Control's online permit database to check whether a business is legally allowed to sell alcohol.

Meanwhile, liquor-permitted establishments are urged to prioritize safety by verifying IDs, including asking costumed patrons to briefly remove masks and face coverings. Permit holders should also refuse service to intoxicated individuals and work to prevent potential drink tampering.

Ohioans 21 and over are encouraged to drink responsibly and remember that alcohol consumption is prohibited in public areas outside a permit holder's premises or an active Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. Adults planning to drink should stay hydrated, eat beforehand, and arrange safe transportation ahead of time by identifying a designated driver, saving the phone number to a taxi company in their phone, or downloading a ride-sharing app. Hosts should also avoid overserving guests, offer alcohol-free options, and help guests travel safely.

"Being cautious and mindful of alcohol consumption ensures a safer, more enjoyable holiday for everyone," Division of Liquor Control Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. "When individuals take responsibility for planning a safe ride home, looking out for friends, and knowing their limits, it helps ensure communities can celebrate without unnecessary risks. A little preparation and awareness can help keep Halloween festivities fun and safe for everyone."

Cannabis Safety Reminders
The Division of Cannabis Control reminds Ohioans that the use of non-medical cannabis in a public area is considered a minor misdemeanor. Similar to alcohol, use of non-medical cannabis by individuals under the age of 21 is prohibited, and individuals who provide cannabis to minors can potentially face fines as well as jail time. In addition, Ohio's law prohibiting smoking or vaping in public indoor spaces applies to marijuana as well.
Any adults over the age of 21 who choose to use cannabis products are urged to proceed with caution. The Division advises consulting a physician, avoiding mixing cannabis with alcohol, always locking cannabis products away from children, and abiding by no-driving and no-public-use laws. Like alcohol, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of cannabis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), developing brains, such as those in young adults, are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of cannabis and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) because the brain continues to develop until the age of 25.

"Public safety is always our priority, especially during times when more families and children are out in our communities," said Division of Cannabis Control Superintendent Jim Canepa. "We want adults who choose to use cannabis to do so responsibly and within the law, and we urge all Ohioans to keep these products securely stored and out of reach of children. A few simple precautions can prevent serious consequences and help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable Halloween season."

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About the Divisions of Liquor Control, Cannabis Control, and State Fire Marshal
The Divisions of State Fire Marshal, Liquor Control, and Cannabis Control are part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.