Remember safety first for a great Halloween

Halloween has arrived don't let it be spoiled by hidden dangers.

Below are a few safety tips to help make Halloween night safe and enjoyable for the whole family.

SAFETY TIPS FOR CHILDREN

• The best costumes are light coloured or bright and reflective. Keep costumes short to avoid tripping and falling. Minimize the risk of contact with candles or other ignition sources by avoiding baggy pants, loose frills, or billowing skirts.

• Give every child a flashlight with fresh batteries. Remind them of traffic safety rules, and that they should cross streets at corners and never cross between parked cars.

• Make sure that children know how to call 9-1-1 or their local emergency number if they experience an emergency.

• Teach children to STOP, DROP and ROLL should their clothing catch fire: STOP immediately, DROP to the ground and cover face with hands, and ROLL over and over to extinguish the flames.

SAFETY AT HOME

• Consider using only battery-powered lanterns, flashing lights or chemical light sticks instead of candles in decorations.

• Small flashlight candles are the safest for use in jack-o'-lanterns. If you must use a candle, try a tea light or votive candle in a non-combustible holder. Always keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children. Place candlelit jack-o'-lanterns on sturdy tables, away from curtains and other flammable objects. Never leave them unattended.

• Candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes can brush against the flame.

• Ensure that electrical outlets are not overloaded with holiday lighting or special effects. Keep exit doors unblocked. Replace bulbs on outdoor lights. Check that the batteries in your smoke alarms work.

• Keep pets safe by ensuring they stay away from the door. Do not let them outside.