OHIO — Halloween is just a few days away, and officials are warning Ohioans that while the holiday is meant to be full of tricks, treats and spooky fun, hazards could be looming around the corner. 

The Ohio Department of Commerce, along with the Ohio Divisions of Cannabis Control, Liquor Control and State Fire Marshal, offered tips to stay safe for Halloween.

More than 9,200 fires in the U.S. occur during the Halloween period, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce. In 2022 in Ohio, there were 83 fires that resulted in eight injuries.

The Division of State Fire Marshall offered these tips to prevent fires and to stay safe:

• Use battery-operated candles instead of
• Keep decorations away from sources that could cause a fire, such as heaters
• Choose costumes free of long, trailing fabric to reduce fire risk
• Avoid wearing masks that significantly restrict your vision
• Keep exits clear of decorations and make sure they are easily accessible
• Make sure to use proper extension cords for indoor/outdoor decorations and avoid plugging too many decorations into a single electrical outlet

“Halloween is a time for fun; however, it’s critical to prioritize safety, especially as it relates to costumes and open flames,” said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon in a release. “By completing some basic steps ahead of the holiday, Ohioans can help ensure they enjoy a fun and safe celebration.”

The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control is urging parents to double-check their kid’s candy, as it could contain hazardous cannabis products, such as delta-8 THC. The advice follows a consumer alert issued earlier this year, that warned packaging of delta-8 THC products can look like popular food products or be appealing to children.

A study released this year showed the rate of delta-8 THC exposure reported to poison control increased by nearly 80% between Jan. 1, 2021 to Dec. 31, 2022. During that time, the study showed 50% of children under 6 years old announced for non-critical care unit admissions. Nearly 58% of them account for CCU admissions.

“Delta-8 and similar products outside of the DCC-regulated market are unregulated, untested and unsafe since there’s no telling what they may contain, including contaminants,” said DCC Superintendent Jim Canepa in a release. “These products have resulted in the hospitalizations of youth throughout Ohio, which is why the Division continues to advocate for legislative action to result in the regulation of these products or an all-out ban. Until that happens, it’s important for parents to take steps to ensure these products stay out of the hands of children, and that means reviewing candy they bring home from trick-or-treating.”

The Ohio DCC is also reminding residents that the use of recreational marijuana in public areas is a minor misdemeanor, and just like alcohol, the use of it by those under 21 years old is also illegal.

People who provide cannabis to minors can face fines as well as jail time.

Officials urge people to avoid mixing cannabis and alcohol, always keep cannabis products locked away from children and never drive under the influence.

In 2023, impaired driving was a factor in 58% of fatal crashes in Ohio, whereas drug-impaired driving was involved in 44% of the those fatal crashes, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

“Being cautious and mindful of alcohol consumption not only ensures personal safety but also contributes to an enjoyable holiday for everyone involved,” DOLC Superintendent Jaqueline DeGenova said in a release.

More safety reminders can be found here.