By admin Published October 18, 2021

It’s that time of year again – Halloween! While you’re in the midst of decorating your home, buying bulk candy to hand out, and getting those costumes together don’t forget to keep your safety (and the safety of your loved ones) in mind this spooky season. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite Halloween tips and tricks to help you out!

Costume Safety

Ghosts, superheroes, witches, and fairies are all popular Halloween costumes for both kids and adults alike. While you’re planning your costume this year, one thing to keep in mind is the safety of your outfit.

• Be mindful of long trailing fabric – this can get caught up, become a tripping hazard, or can catch on fire if you aren’t paying attention.
• If you or your child is wearing a mask, double check that the eye holes are large enough to see through and that you can properly breathe in it.
• We recommend opting for comfortable shoes if you will be out walking all night, especially as temperatures are continuing to drop.
• If you are using any costume makeup, check to make sure it is hypoallergenic before you put it on your face, so you don’t end up having a reaction. Don’t forget to wash all makeup off before you go to sleep for the night as well.
• If you can, stay away from using decorative contact lenses.
• Check to see if that wig you plan on rocking is fire resistant, and if not, be careful around an open flame. Wigs can catch fire and burn faster than you think!

Trick or Treating Safety

If you have children who like to adventure out to collect candy, remember these important tips to ensure they have a great time, but also remain safe.

• If your child is old enough to go trick or treating without you, be sure to establish a route and a time for them to be home.
• Try adding reflective tape to their candy bag, bucket, or costume so that cars can see them when it gets dark.
• Remind your kids to look before crossing the street, utilize sidewalks at all times, and not to assume a car can see them.
• Remind your children to never interact with strangers or get in a car with anyone they do not know/trust.
• The buddy rule is one of the best to remind your children of if they are going out with friends.

Decorations

One of the best parts of Halloween is the decorations that are put on display. From jack-o-lanterns to skeletons set up in the yard and inflatable lawn characters, there is no shortage of décor to express your creativity with. Just remember that decorations can be a major safety hazard and are one of the first things to catch on fire. Here are some tips to help keep that fun, festive spirit alive.

• This one seems obvious but can be overlooked often – keep your decorations away from open flames and use the proper extension cords inside and outside of your home.
• Instead of using real candles in your jack-o-lanterns swap out for battery operated candles.
• Keep in mind that dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire very easily, so when able, switch for less flammable material.
• Do not block doors or general exits with props, inflatables, or other large objects.
• If you are using a smoke machine or dry ice for a party, make sure to read instructions and understand how to use the equipment.
  • Never let dry ice touch your skin! It can cause terrible burns if it comes into contact with skin.

We love the Halloween spirit and can feel the excitement for the festivities in the air! We hope that you enjoy your time with family and friends and that your loved ones are safe. We would also love to see your creative costumes, so feel free to send us photos or tag us on Instagram: @carbondale_fire. If you have any questions, as always, feel free to reach out to your friends at The Carbondale Fire District.