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This Halloween and Fall, safety should be a top priority for families and homeowners, as increased foot traffic and seasonal decorations can create potential hazards. Taking the proper precautions can ensure a safe and fun season for everyone.
General Fall Home Safety
With the change of season, it is important to address potential risks around the home, especially for older adults:
- Prevent Falls: Keep walking paths clear of clutter and electrical cords, especially when setting up any Halloween decorations, to keep visitors and Trick-or-Treaters safe
- Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms: Fall-back for Daylight Saving Time (officially November 2) is a great reminder to test all smoke and CO alarms to ensure they are functioning and batteries are replaced as needed
- Clean Gutters: Clear out the leaves and other debris from your gutters to prevent water damage and potential ice buildup. Use a sturdy ladder with a spotter or hire a professional
- Check your heating systems: Be proactive with your heating system to ensure it is in safe working order for the upcoming colder months. Also, don’t forget to add a fresh filter and replace as needed during the heating months.
- Practice Candle Safety: Keep candles away from anything flammable and out of reach of children. Consider using battery-operated candles instead.
Halloween Safety Tips
Costume Safety
- Visibility & Fire Resistance: Select light-coloured, flame-resistant costumes with reflective tape or add your own to costumes and treat bags
- Costume Fit & Visibility: Costumes should be the proper length to prevent trips and falls, and masks should be avoided as they limit vision. Face paint is a safer option
- Footwear: Ensure that children wear sturdy, well-fitting and slip-resistant shoes
- Accessories: Avoid any accessories that are long, pointed, or could cause injury if fallen on
Trick-or-Treating Safety
- Stay Visible: Always carry a flashlight and walk on the sidewalks
- Go in Groups: Have children “Trick-or-Treat” with a trusted adult and in a familiar, well-lit neighborhood
- Inspect Candy: Wait to enjoy candy until you get home. Check treats and candy with your children to ensure quality and safety.
- Safety First: Remind children to avoid homemade treats and not enter strangers’ homes or vehicles
- Cross with Care: Remind children to cross streets at corners and crosswalks, not in the middle of the block or between parked vehicles
Decoration & Fire Safety
- Supervise Carving: For pumpkins, let young children draw the design but have an adult do the carving
- Use Safe Lighting: Use battery-operated candles or flashlights instead of open flames for pumpkins and decorations to prevent house fires
- Secure Decorations: Ensure all decorations are stable, away from curtains or paper, and do not block walkways
- Clear Pathways: Keep your yard, walkways and driveways clear of tripping hazards, including wires, cables, or leaves
- Protect Pets: Keep pets indoors to avoid accidents and keep them away from chocolate and other unsafe foods
Wishing everyone a safe and fun Halloween!
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