As Halloween approaches, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and local fire departments are sharing essential tips to ensure a fun and safe night for families.
Costume safety
When picking out costumes, avoid long, trailing fabric that can easily catch fire. If a mask is part of the costume, make sure it has large enough eye holes to allow for clear vision. Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks as part of their costume to increase visibility and reduce the need for open flames.
Decorating safely
Decorations, including dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper, can ignite quickly. Keep all decorations far from open flames and heat sources like light bulbs. Use battery-operated candles or glow sticks in jack-o-lanterns. If using real candles, monitor them closely and place lit pumpkins out of high-traffic areas like doorsteps, walkways, and yards to avoid accidents.
Fire safety precautions at home
Clear all exits of decorations to ensure unblocked escape routes. Confirm that all smoke alarms in the home are working properly. For families hosting Halloween parties, make sure children know multiple ways out of the house in case of an emergency.
Teaching kids fire safety
Remind children to stay away from open flames, including candles in jack-o-lanterns. Teach them the “stop, drop, and roll” technique in case of a clothing fire: stop moving, drop to the ground, cover the face with hands, and roll repeatedly to extinguish flames.
These precautions can help ensure a safe Halloween. For more safety resources, visit the NFPA Public Education Division online or contact your local fire department, like Auburn Fire Department at (315) 253-4031.
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