Halloween Havoc

The season of jack–o’–lanterns, bonfires, haunted houses, and horror films are upon us. While spooky pranks and sacks of candy come with the territory, avoid a truly scary story with these safety tips:

• Make sure costumes are labeled as flame resistant

• Improve visibility with reflective tape, brightly colored costumes, and flashlights

• Keep children’s masks loose fitting around the eyes, mouth, and nose

• Be sure toy swords and knives are made of soft, flexible material

• Accompany children and make sure they remain on sidewalks

• Approach only houses with outdoor lights on

• Do not allow children to enter homes

• Remove potential hazards from your yard/walkway that could cause falls

• Inspect all children’s candy before they eat it

• Keep pumpkins with candles away from areas and materials that could ignite

• Make sure each group of children is small enough that 1 adult can safely supervise

• Use extra precautions when driving — go slowly through neighborhoods and look out for children running across lawns and streets

• Don’t forget about your pets — keep them away from candy, pumpkins, decorations, electrical wires, and trick or treaters — too many ghosts and goblins can be stressful for even the friendliest Fidos.