🎃Halloween Safety👻

Beyond witches, goblins, and eating too much candy, Halloween has a few hidden horrors in the safety realm. Whether you're decorating, driving, or celebrating, here are some key reminders to keep yourself and others safe this season:

Pumpkin Carving Precautions

• Use carving tools, not kitchen knives. Specialty kits are safer and more effective.

• Always carve on a stable surface with good lighting.

• Keep hands and tools dry to avoid slips.

• Supervise children closely or let them decorate with markers or stickers instead.

  • More information: State Farm

    
    

Watch Your Step

• Wet leaves can be slippery. Clear walkways and driveways regularly. This is for your own safety, as well as trick-or-treaters who may visit your haunted house.

• Wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes if you're out and about.

• Use flashlights or headlamps when walking at night to spot uneven pavement or debris.

  • More information: BC Forest Safe

    
    

Drive with Extra Caution

• Be alert for trick-or-treaters, especially in residential areas.

• Drive slowly and avoid distractions. Kids may dart out unexpectedly.

• Turn on headlights early to improve visibility.

• Avoid driving if you're feeling tired or impaired in any way.

  • This is not conjecture - Halloween is the deadliest day of the year for child pedestrians.

    
    

Decorating Safely

• Use battery-operated candles in pumpkins and decorations to reduce fire risk.

• Keep cords and decorations out of walkways to prevent tripping.

• Ensure outdoor lights are rated for exterior use and plugged into GFCI outlets.

  • If they are indoor lights outdoors, they can become an electrocution hazard.

    
    

Party Responsibly

• If hosting or attending a party, drink responsibly and plan a safe ride home.

  • Pro-tip: When using an Uber, make sure you check the license plate and driver are a match before getting inside.

• Be mindful of costumes that may obstruct vision or movement.

• Check that masks and makeup are non-toxic and don’t impair breathing.

Costume Safety for All Ages

• Choose costumes that are visible at night. Reflective tape or glow sticks can help.

• Avoid long or trailing fabric that could cause tripping or snagging.

• Make sure masks don’t obstruct vision or breathing. Face paint is often a safer alternative.

  • Masks with eye holes may cover corners of your eyes, depending on your face shape. This can cause issues with peripheral vision.

Stay Connected

• Keep your phone charged and accessible in case of emergencies.

• If you're out walking or attending events, share your location with a trusted friend or family member.

• Avoid walking while distracted by your phone. Stay alert to your surroundings.

  • Not sure where to start with staying connected while walking alone? Of course, there's an app for that!

    
    

Let’s make this Halloween fun and safe for everyone.

Share these tips with your team, family, and friends, and have a hauntingly happy holiday!