While the tradition of picking the perfect pumpkins to decorate your home sounds fun, let's not forget there's a potential fire hazard waiting to ignite.

One of the best parts about fall and Halloween is carving a pumpkin, to the best of your ability, and lighting it up with a candle or tea light to bring your art to life!

Of course, most people place their jack-o'-lanterns outside their homes for passer byers to enjoy on a nightly stroll or provide light up to their porch.  Others light their carved pumpkins inside their homes for a unique ambiance, but this might not be the smartest decision.

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According to the Department of Fire Services,

"everyone should try flameless alternatives such as glow sticks, battery-powered tea lights, or even battery-powered fairy lights." [housedigest]

Seriously, if you're going to light a candle inside of a pumpkin make sure to know it'll dry out at some point.  This makes the pumpkin more prone to catching fire and we don't want that!

Read More: Illinoisans, Don’t Leave This Potential Fire Hazard in Your Car

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Illinoisans, Don't Leave This Potential Fire Hazard In Your Home

I found out that candles inside jack-o'-lanterns are the #1 fire hazard behind Halloween decorations.  This is why you shouldn't light them inside your house!

Whether the candle tips over, wind blows a little too hard, or someone just isn't watching over the lit pumpkin, there are so many ways accidents can happen and lead to a house fire.

Related: Don’t Dare Leave These 8 Things In A Hot Car In Illinois

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Your best bet is getting a fake candle or tea light, honestly.  Better safe than sorry!

"A popular option is simply a fake candle. A battery-operated LED light brings that same cheerful glow without the risk. Some families even opt for colorful glow sticks to provide color variation for a bright, vibrant Jack O’Lantern." [alldryus]

So, if you're thinking of lighting up your jack-o'-lanterns inside, outside, or anywhere near your home, make sure you're keeping a close eye on it or resort to alternative, safer options.

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