Scary but safe: What to look for at a haunted house

Part of the fun of haunted houses is that they’re not like regular places. They’re meant to confuse, disorient, scare, and delight. This doesn’t mean they don’t have to meet safety codes, or that you should let your guard down.

“Even with all their terrifying features, treat haunted houses like you would any building,” says Kelley Stalder, SFMO’s chief deputy of inspections. “Make sure exits are properly labeled. Have an escape plan. Besides the ghosts and monsters, does the building look safe?”

The National Fire Protection Association calls haunted houses “special amusement buildings.” These businesses often have props and scenery that can make it harder to escape and can add fuel to the fire.

Here are some safety features to look for in a haunted house:

• Automatic sprinklers.
• Smoke alarms.
• Exit marks on the floor.
• Maximum occupancy signs.

Remember your safety when you’re out having fun this Halloween season, and you’ll be sure to have a “ghoul” time.

Learn more

• Fire safety for Halloween
• Haunted Houses: Codes and Guidelines
• What Are the Fire Code Requirements for Haunted House Attractions?