Scared Safe: Tips for a Safe & Spooky Halloween

Recent online surveys rank Halloween second only to Christmas as the family favorite holiday. With the U.S. Census Bureau stating that an estimated 41 million children went trick-or-treating in 2010, pedestrians and motorists need to take precautions as they roam about on Hallow’s Eve.

“We see a slight increase in emergency responses on Halloween throughout the city of San Diego,” said Rural/Metro Paramedic Rick Rod. “Give yourself an extra couple of minutes to get somewhere and be vigilant about your safety and that of others throughout the evening hours of Halloween.”

Going trick-or-treating?  Here are some safety tips: 

 S

Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.

 A

Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

 F

Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

E

Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.

H

Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you.

A

Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent skin and eye irritation.

L

Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.

L

Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

O

Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.

W

Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.

E

Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats unless you know the cook well.

E

Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Otherwise, stay outside.

N

Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

(Source:  http://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/)

As always, when in doubt, 911 is at your fingertips. And, remember…Every Second Counts.