Halloween Safety

Halloween is an exciting day for many children. This Halloween please keep the following safety tips in mind to ensure all children have a safe and happy Halloween!

Costumes

  • Make sure your child wears a light coloured or bright coloured costume. Reflective tape or arm bands can help heighten visibility.
  • Ensure costumes are properly fitted to reduce the chance of tripping. 
  • Select a costume that is labeled Flame Resistant.
  • Make sure vision is not restricted. Consider using makeup instead of masks.
  • If wearing a mask, ensure the eye holes are large enough to see.
  • Shoes should fit properly even if they do not go well with the costume

Trick-or-Treating

  • Carry flashlights for more lighting, or wear glow sticks.
  • Remind your child of the rules of the road. 
  • Children should know how to call 911 in case of emergency.
  • Keep your outside light on so that children know they can visit your home.
  • Keep the path leading up to your door free of obstacles.
  • Consider using glow sticks or battery operated candles in your pumpkin instead of a candle.
  • Remind children that it is not safe to enter strange homes or unknown vehicles.
  • Keep pets indoors to protect them from hazards, prevent them from getting scared, and ensure they do not become aggressive toward visitors.
  • Inspect your children's candy before they eat it. Throw out any that are unwrapped.
  • If you are driving be aware of children. Please drive slowly!

Parties

  • If you or your children are hosting or attending a party, ensure everyone knows the fire escape plan.
  • Test your smoke detectors to make sure that they are working.
  • If you are attending an adult Halloween party, do not drink and drive.

Decorations

  • Battery operated candles, flashlights, or glow sticks are the safest lights to use in a pumpkin.
  • Make sure that any combustible Halloween decorations are kept a safe distance away from all sources of heat, including light bulbs and heaters.
  • Do not put decorations in front of exits. 
  • Ensure your decorative lights are certified by the Canadian Standards Association and do not use them if they are cracked or worn.