Halloween Safety
Halloween is such a fun time for children, but it is also a good time to teach them the important fundamentals of safety, and what potential hazards are out there with them, so that we all can return to our homes with a smile.
We will be patrolling the area and handing out treats from our apparatus vehicles, refreshments will also be given out at our Fire Station for anyone who would like to stop in during normal Trick-or-Treating hours, from 6:00 pm. till 8:00 pm.
We hope that there is enough basic information below to help keep our little ones safe while out and about Trick-or-Treating this year.
Stay Safe and Happy Halloween
Brookside Fire Company
~ Each year around Halloween, we turn the clocks back one hour. This is a great time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. ~
General Safety Tips
* Home owners should prepare their home for trick-or-treaters by restraining dogs and other animals, removing obstacles from the front yard, and lighting the house well.
* Provide treats that are individually wrapped candy or offer kids nonfood treats, such as erasers, stickers and gift certificates.
* Battery powered lights and candles are a safer alternative to real candles with a flame that can pose a fire hazard.
* If going to an adult Halloween party, make sure that you don't drink and drive. Use a designated driver if alcohol is being consumed.
* Keep dried leaves, props, cornstalks, etc. away from all flames and heat sources.
Basic Halloween Safety Tips
Children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.
Make sure your child eats dinner before setting out.
Jack-o'-lanterns with Battery powered lights are preferable to a real flame.
Stay together as a group if going out to Trick or Treat.
Carry a bright flashlight to light your way and to be seen by others.
It’s hard to see in the dark so walk, don't run.
Walk on the sidewalks avoid walking on the street.
If no sidewalk, walk on your left side of the street facing traffic.
Never attempt to jump drainage ditches.
Pay attention to all traffic signals.
Look left, right, left before crossing the street to check for cars.
Cross the street only at a corner, or in a crosswalk.
Do not hide, play, or dart out in the street between parked cars.
Stay in a familiar neighborhood.
Do not cut across yards or driveways.
Be cautious if you see road work signs.
Wear a watch you can read in the dark.
Set an alarm on your watch, so you know when its time to go back home.
Make sure the costume you wear does not drag on the ground.
Wear shoes that fit, even if they do not go with your costume.
Keep away from open fires and candles, costumes can be extremely flammable.
Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.
Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your eyes.
Never take short cuts through wooded areas.
Never approach a stranger’s vehicle.
Never accept treats or rides from a stranger’s vehicle.
Notify authorities if you see anything suspicious.
Stay away from animals you don't know.
Carry only soft and flexible props with you.
Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape.
Make sure that you have the right child in sight.
Make sure costumes are fire retardant.
Wear costumes large enough to fit clothing underneath suitable for weather conditions.
Only trick or treat at houses that are lit.
Make sure your child goes to the bathroom before leaving the house.
Accept treats only outside the doorway. Never go inside a house.
Always carry a spare Halloween bag just in case yours breaks.
NEVER ! leave a burning candle unattended.
Review the method of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.
Always be polite. Say "Trick-or-Treat" and "Thank You".
Inspect all treats brought home before anything is eaten.
When in doubt, throw it out.
Bring a cellular phone with you if possible.
Teach children how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any pay phone.