A WARNING has been issues to Borders parents over dangerous Halloween costumes which can catch fire in seconds.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have launched the campaign following the notable event that hit headlines in 2014 when the daughter of Strictly Come Dancing presenter Claudia Winkleman was rushed to hospital.

Her eight-year-old daughter, Matilda, was taken after her Halloween costumer went up in flames while she was out trick-or-treating.

Since the event two years ago, fire services across Scotland have highlighted how quickly the costumes can go up in flames.

Every year, many adults and children are injured due to lit candles, and it can only take a matter of seconds for a costume to burst into flames.

Assistant Chief Officer for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, David McGown said: “Naked flames can be a risk at any time of the year but are particularly dangerous with long trailing costumes being worn at Halloween.

“To minimise the risk, battery operated candles should be used where possible.

“Costumes can quickly catch fire and it’s important to learn the stop, drop and roll technique in the case of an accident.”

In the unfortunate event of an accident with a lit candle, the advice is to stop, drop and roll until the flames go out.