Tips for a Safe & Happy Halloween

BEFORE HALLOWEEN

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
• Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.
• Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns, flameless candles or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in jack-O-lanterns and costumes.
• Review with your children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll” should their clothes catch fire.
• Take extra time to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
• Agree on specific time when revelers must return home.
• Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry a cell phone.
• Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags.

WHEN TRICK-OR-TREATING

• Parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• Remind Trick-or-treaters:

1. By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others
2. Stay in a group and walk slowly
3. Only go to homes that have a light on
4. Never enter a strangers home or car for a treat
5. Remain on well lit streets and always use the sidewalk
6. Always walk. Never run across a street
7. Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered
8. No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home
9. Police should be notified immediately of any suspicious activity

Courtesy: The Fire Guy