Guest Column: Halloween Safety Tips

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Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

Halloween is upon us and safety should be the number one priority for trick-or-treaters. Here are some tips for choosing the right costumes:

Costumes purchased should be made of flame retardant material—check the label. Hemlines should be short enough to prevent tripping. Glow-in-the-dark reflective tape is great for nighttime costumes.

Make-up is better than masks as they may obstruct vision.

Use battery-powered lights and avoid candles to light jack-o’-lanterns.

Children need to stay away from open flames.

Remove objects from the yard that present a hazard to children (garden tools, hoses, etc.).

Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to others.

If you are driving on Halloween, watch out for trick-or-treaters who will be too busy to watch out for you.

Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it.

Discard any unwrapped treats. If in doubt, throw it out!

For additional safety information contact your local fire department and/or visit: usa.gov/Topics/Halloween.shtml

Be safe and Happy Halloween!