Fall is a wonderful time of the year and we are getting closer to the day children have been waiting for, Halloween! Halloween is a great time to put on our best costumes and enjoy an evening of trick or treating. However, we should keep in mind a few simple safety tips from the Orlando Fire Department and Orlando Police Department to keep our little monsters safe out on the streets.
- Make sure long costumes end several inches above the ground to avoid tripping and falling
- Provide children with well-fitted masks to avoid blocked vision
- If a sword, knife or a stick is a part of your child’s costume, make sure it is not sharp
- Choose flame resistant materials and use reflected tape on dark costumes
- Keep lit candles, all matches and lighters out of children’s reach
- Use battery-operated candles instead of real candles
- Plan a safe route in an area that is familiar to you and never allow your children to trick-or-treat alone; have them walk in groups or with a trusted adult
- Inform kids to never enter a stranger’s house or accept rides from strangers
- Have children carry a flashlight or glow in the dark sticks to make them more visible in the evening hours
- Walk only on sidewalks and look out for cars when crossing at crosswalks
- Check all candy and treats before letting your kids eat; don’t let them eat unless the treats are factory-packaged
- Look out for choking hazards for young children including gum, hard candies and small toys
- If you are expecting the little monsters and witches at home, make sure your porch lights are on; you can have the spookiest and the safest house at the same time
Drivers should be especially alert on Halloween. Children are excited and they tend to move in unpredictable ways. Here a few safety reminders for drivers:
- Eliminate any distractions inside your car and concentrate on the road; avoid texting or talking on the phone at all times
- Drive slowly and turn your headlights on to spot children
- Take extra time to look for children when exiting driveways or pulling onto the streets
If you see any suspicious activity, report it immediately by calling 911.
Enjoy a safe and spooky Halloween full of tricks and treats. Happy haunting to everyone!
