AGES finds safety risks in children’s Halloween products

Austria’s Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES) found safety defects in six children’s Halloween products, ORF reported. The agency tested 61 masks and costumes nationwide, and nearly a quarter of the products drew multiple criticisms.

Some of the concerns involved materials that were easily flammable and could burn either too quickly or for too long, said Eva Unterleitner, an AGES expert in Linz. The affected items included masks, hair extensions and plastics containing banned plasticisers.

AGES director Daniela Schachner described some results as “frightening”. The testing included both well-made products and cheaper items that could catch fire easily. The agency advised shoppers to check products carefully and look for the CE mark, which indicates compliance with applicable European Union requirements.

Upper Austria’s environmental councillor Stefan Kaineder of the Green Party also urged caution. He said products with a strong chemical smell when unpacked should be treated with suspicion, and recommended washing costumes before wearing them. Parents should also check whether small parts could come loose and pose a danger to young children.

Kaineder also warned that many Halloween costumes are used only once before being thrown away. He recommended longer-lasting or homemade costumes as more sustainable alternatives.