Spooky Safety!

Halloween is a fun and spooky time of year for kids. Make trick-or-treating safe for your little monsters with a few easy safety tips. When choosing a costume, avoid billowing or long training fabrics and never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Purchase costumes, wigs, and props that are labeled flame-resistant or flame retardant. If your children are wearing masks, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can avoid injuries.

For those expecting trick-or-treaters at their door, to ensure fun and safety make sure the porch lights are on and sweep leaves from sidewalks and steps. People should also clear the porch or front yard of any obstacles that a child may trip over or that obstruct an exit. Keep pets restrained when children arrive and use glow sticks or solar lighting in your walkway to avoid fire hazards.

To maximize safety, plan a route ahead of time. Make sure adults know where children are going. If the children are young, a parent or responsible adult should accompany them as they walk through the neighborhood.

Children should only visit houses where the porch light is on. Only accept candy at the door and never go inside. Trick-or-treaters should use sidewalks and always look both ways before crossing the street.

Action Steps You Can Take:

JACK-O LANTERNS:

  • To light, use a flashlight or battery-operated candle
  • Use extreme caution when using a real candle
  • Light candles with a long utility lighter
  • Place pumpkins far away from children, doorsteps, walkways, and yards.

COSTUME SAFETY:

  • Add reflective tape to costume or trick-or-treat bags
  • Use flame resistant costumes
  • Use face makeup instead of masks to increase visibility.
  • Stay away from long, billowing costumes to avoid a fire hazard

HALLOWEEN HAZARDS:

  • Props such as dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper are highly flammable.
  • Keep all decorations away from open flames and heat sources.
  • Keep exits clear of decorations.
  • Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks for visibility.

*Source National Fire Protection Association

You can download and print thisHalloween Safety flyer.