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!

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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.

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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.

Peep These Sweet Pumpkins! Rockford Showing Off Their Carving Skills

We asked to see what people are creating this Halloween and boy did we get to see some mighty fine pumpkin work. Take a look at some of our favorites.

Gallery Credit: Steve Shannon