Ajax Fire and Emergency Services urges residents to keep Halloween safe from fire hazards

Ajax Fire and Emergency Services is encouraging residents to make fire safety part of their Halloween celebrations, with practical tips ahead of trick-or-treating this weekend.

In a seasonal reminder, the fire service is asking households to choose battery-operated candles or glow sticks instead of traditional candles whenever possible, according to a Town of Ajax notice.

Candles and decorations

For families who do use real candles, the service recommends placing them in sturdy holders and keeping them well away from decorations, costumes and any areas where trick-or-treaters will be walking.

Decorations should also be kept at a distance from heat sources such as candles, light bulbs and heaters. Doorways, walkways and exits should remain clear so people can move safely in and out of the home.

Talking to children about fire

Parents are being encouraged to speak with children about staying away from open flames, including candles inside carved pumpkins.

The service is also reminding families to review Stop, Drop and Roll with their kids: if clothing catches fire, stop immediately, drop to the ground, cover the face with both hands and roll back and forth until the flames are out. Running should be avoided, as it can cause flames to spread quickly.

Clock change a chance to check alarms

With clocks turning back around Halloween, the timing is a good opportunity to replace the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms so they are working properly, the notice said.

Make safety part of the Halloween fun. Choose battery-operated candles or glow sticks instead of open flames, keep exits clear and place decorations away from heat sources. Replace batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to ensure they are working properly and ready to protect your family.

The quote comes from Tania Pannunzio, public educator with the Town of Ajax.

New Ontario alarm requirements

Residents should also be aware of a change in provincial rules. As of January 2026, Ontario law requires both smoke and CO alarms on every level of a home and outside all sleeping areas.

That means this weekend's battery check is a chance to confirm the home meets the updated requirements before winter, when furnaces, fireplaces and portable heaters come back into regular use.

For Ajax households handing out candy Saturday night, the message is simple: glow instead of burn, keep the path to the door clear, and make sure the alarms that protect the household are ready to do their job.