Grundy Reporter

As Halloween approaches, the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) and the Office of Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) are collaborating to ensure that haunted houses across Illinois meet safety standards for visitors.

Following fires in the 1970s and 1980s, Illinois implemented stricter safety rules for haunted house operators. Most haunted houses in the state are now required to have smoke alarms, sprinklers, and comply with both state and local safety codes. In municipalities with home rule authority, local officials oversee these regulations unless OSFM assistance is requested. Employees working at haunted houses must undergo background checks, screenings against the sex offender registry, and drug testing.

Not-for-profit religious, educational, or charitable haunted houses are exempt from IDOL inspections. Locally owned haunted house operators should consult their local authorities to determine which requirements apply to them, as inspections in these cases fall under local jurisdiction.

"With safety checks complete, Illinois families can look forward to a fun and frightful Halloween. There are many haunted houses to choose from across the state that are safe and exciting," according to the statement.

Rezin, a Republican, was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 2010 to represent the state's 38th Senate District, replacing previous state senator Gary G. Dahl.