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Please Observe...
HALLOWEEN
Safety Rules!
The joy and excitement surrounding a special event,
such as Halloween, can suddenly turn to sorrow and misfortune  through
one careless act. The incidence of fire, accident and injury often increases
during holidays and festive events. Each year we witness accidents on Halloween
which could have been prevented had simple safety rules been followed. Among the
high-risk activities on Halloween, trick-or-treating is of greatest concern to
Fire Department personnel. Often there are safe alternatives to the practice of
trick-or-treating which can be fun and also risk-free. Local churches and
schools may plan Halloween parties, or families may group together and conduct
games and activities to encourage young children to participate instead of
trick-or-treating in dangerous neighborhoods or along busy streets.
For those that plan to venture out trick-or-treating,
the Ashland Fire Department would like to offer the following safety tips so
that all might enjoy a happy Halloween:
- Costumes should be made of flame resistant
light-colored fabric or have reflective qualities. They should be short
enough so as not to interfere with walking or become entangled in bicycle
chains. Use facial makeup rather than masks so children can see easily.
- Children should carry flashlights and not use
candles or torches. Before leaving the home, children should discuss the
proposed route, time of return and companions. Younger children should
always be accompanied by an adult. It is advisable to visit only the homes
of persons you know, or travel in local, familiar neighborhoods and stop at
well-lit houses. As a general rule, children should avoid entering homes or
apartments and always travel with a companion.
- Children should avoid busy streets, always use
sidewalks, and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Motorists should
avoid all unnecessary travel on Halloween evening, and when driving they
should drive slowly and be alert to small children crossing streets. Many
accidents occur when motorists are backing vehicles out of driveways,
unaware of the presence of small children.
- Halloween treats should be saved until children
return home, where adults can examine all items closely. Treats which are
unwrapped or show signs of having been opened should not be eaten. Fruit
should be sliced into small pieces and checked for foreign objects. Keep
small pieces of candy away from infants and very small children. They can
easily become lodged in the throat and cause choking.
- Persons receiving trick-or-treaters should keep a
light on and pick up obstacles over which a child may trip and become
injured. Candlelit jack-o-lanterns should be kept clear of doorsteps and
landings. Consider the possibility of using flashlights instead of candles
to light jack-o-lanterns. Keep dogs and other pets away from doors so
children will not become frightened.
The Nocona Volunteer Fire Department
wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween!
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