Rules About Flameproofing Costumes

Whether it's that perfectly conceived Halloween getup or costumes for your theater's extras, remember that safety precautions should figure prominently in your planning. Fire safety is certainly at the top of any costume-related list. When considering how to best ensure costume flameproofing, examine all aspects, from fabrics to accessories and environment. This attention to detail will better secure your friends and companions against injury and ensure the overall enjoyment of your particular activity.

Fabrics

• Perhaps the single most important focal point in fireproofing costumes is the materials used in the garments themselves. As might be expected, some fabrics lend themselves more easily to fire safety or, alternatively, catching fire. According to Artist's Fire Resource, you most want to consider materials such as Nomex, treated cotton, PBI, leather, wool, silk and kevlar. On the other hand, some materials to avoid include PVC, nylon, vinyl and anything polymerized.

Fire Retardants

• There are a number of products, especially sprays, that can be purchased to enhance the fire safety of your costume(s). Do not consider these as a single application solution. They should be reapplied on a regular basis. This is particularly true anytime the costume is laundered, which may remove some or all of the fire-retardant properties offered by the previous coat. Remember that these sprays may be irritating or harmful to some skin types or organs, such as the eyes, nostrils or mouth. Wear face masks and goggles when applying or if you are in the near vicinity.

Accessories

• There are some accessories that may prove dangerous. First, any kind of candle or similarly lit item is not safe. Additionally, avoid wearing excessive plastics or polymers (as alluded to above with regard to fabrics and materials), as these will burn and may also let off noxious, toxic or otherwise harmful smoke or gases, which can be inhaled. Avoid any addition to your garment that trails behind you and that can either easily catch fire or inhibit you from acting or responding appropriately or effectively if fire does occur.

Other Considerations

• Remember that costume fire-proofing is just as much about the environment as it is the costume itself. This means that the wearer of the costume must know the procedures should it catch on fire. This includes "stop, drop and roll" maneuvers, as well as how to respond to different types of fire (electrical, gas or other), and what not to do. Have all participants in your activity know the location of fire extinguishers, alarms, water sources and communication devices that may be used to contact emergency services. Protecting and educating the whole group will protect all the individuals in the group.