PENTICTON — Everyone loves a good scare on Halloween, but not at the expense of children’s safety. The Penticton Fire Department encourages all parents and children to follow a few simple tips to stay safe on All Hollow’s Eve.

“Halloween is one of the most thrilling nights of the year for children, and also one of the most dangerous. The Penticton Fire Department asks everyone to have a safe Halloween,” said Penticton Fire Chief Wayne Williams.

Here are a few tips for staying safe this Halloween:
-  Choosing a costume – accidental falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries on Halloween night. Avoid tripping over steps and curbs by having costumes hemmed to the appropriate length and fit of the costume. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape, stickers or glow sticks. Masks can often obstruct a child’s vision; try using makeup or non-toxic face paint.
-  Traffic safety – on Halloween night four times more children are injured in pedestrian and/or automobile accidents than any other night of the year. Provide your child with a flashlight and review road safety. Drivers should be especially alert for children between the hours of 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
-  Treats – Be sure your children understand the importance of avoiding eating their treats until an adult has properly examined them.
-  Decorations – Keep decorations such as dried flowers, paper and other highly flammable items well away from all heat sources like flame, light bulbs and heaters. Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes. Avoid using real candles in jack-o’- lanterns; instead use a flashlight or battery-operated candle.
-  Child Safety – Remind children to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and to trick-or- treat in groups. Review “stop, drop and roll” in the event clothes catch fire and remind children to stay away from open flames.
-  Halloween parties – If attending Halloween parties at other’s homes, have a plan to get out in the event of an emergency, look for two emergency exits and plan for a safe way home.

News from © iNFOnews, 2013