Halloween Safety Tips from the Columbia-Richland Fire Department
It’s that time of year again! The air is getting crisp, and all around Columbia, spooky decorations are popping up in yards and homes. Halloween is just around the corner, and while it’s a time full of fun, candy, and costumes, it’s also important to remember that there are some safety measures we need to keep in mind to ensure both kids and adults have a secure and enjoyable spooky season.
Don’t Forget the Basics
When it comes to trick-or-treating, one of the most important things to keep in mind is to always be visible! If your little ghouls and goblins plan to head out after dark, make sure they wear bright costumes or even add some reflective tape to their outfits. You want them to be seen by car drivers, right? And speaking of visibility, don’t forget to carry a light source. A glow stick, flashlight, or even putting some lights on their costumes can work wonders!
Plan Your Route
Before heading out, take a few minutes to plan a safe route in your neighborhood. Stick to well-lit streets, and try to avoid those poorly lit alleyways or areas that you’re unfamiliar with. It’s also wise to let your kids know to only visit houses that are lit up and participating in Halloween activities. Remember, it’s all about having fun while staying safe!
Check Your Treats!
Once your little ones come home with their treat bags brimming with candy, it’s time to do a check-up! It’s always best to have a trusted adult go through the collected treats to ensure that everything is safe to eat. Toss out any unwrapped candies or anything that looks suspicious. This ensures that your children have only the best and safest candies to enjoy!
Stay Clear of Open Flames
Halloween decorations are a blast, but we must always be cautious with any open flames. The Columbia-Richland Fire Department reminds us to be especially careful with candles. If you plan on using them as part of your spooky decorations, it’s crucial to keep them away from any flammable materials, and NEVER leave kids alone in a room with a burning candle.
Keep Matches and Lighters Secure
Little hands are naturally curious, and we want to keep them safe! To avoid any accidents, make sure to keep matches and lighters out of their reach. It’s a good idea to store these items up high in a locked cabinet or drawer. This way, you can prevent any potential fire hazards that could arise from children playing with them.
Have a Backup Plan
Accidents can happen, so it’s always smart to have a plan in place just in case. Make sure your kids know who to reach out to if they get lost, and it wouldn’t hurt to have a designated meeting point in case anyone gets separated from the group. Not only does having a plan ease nerves, but it also makes the night more enjoyable for everyone.
Wrapping It Up!
Halloween is a wonderful time filled with laughter and excitement. By following these simple yet effective safety tips, you can ensure that your trick-or-treating experience is both fun and safe. So lace up those costumes, grab your bags, and prepare for a hauntingly good time this spooky season!
From everyone at Columbia-Richland Fire Department, enjoy your Halloween, and stay safe!
