Everyone has heard cautionary tales of Halloween mishaps but not every spooky story is a work of fiction. Real life dangers exist on Halloween night that can quickly turn trick-or-treating into a grim disaster. First responders in the area have compiled helpful tips so families can plan for a scary and safe celebration.
East Pierce Fire and Rescue
Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween compared to any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids World Wide. East Pierce Firefighter Matt Lowery urges drivers to be cautious of excited children near the road.
“Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods, when driving,” Lowery said. “Children are excited on Halloween and may move unpredictably, suddenly darting out into traffic or from between parked cars.”
The following pedestrian safety tips apply every day of the year but are particularly important while trick-or-treating:
• Cross the street at crosswalks or corners. Always use traffic signals.
• Look left, right and left again when crossing. Keep looking as you cross.
• Walk — don’t run, across the street.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
• Use sidewalks or paths when possible. Otherwise walk facing traffic, as far to the left as possible.
Fire hazards are another genuine concern on Halloween. Decorations are responsible for 1,000 home fires nationwide each year, said Firefighter Kyle Bylin. The following tips will help prevent fires:
• Use flashlights or battery-operated candles inside jack-o-lanterns.
• If you do use a real candle, do so with extreme caution.
• Select flame-resistant materials for costumes and decorations.
“If you use a real candle, use extreme caution and make sure children are watched at all times,” said Bylin. “Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways and yards.”
Sumner Police Department
Deputy Chief Jeff Engel of the Sumner Police Department provides the following reminders:
• Both children and adults should be aware that face masks often obstruct the wearer’s view, making it difficult to spot potential dangers. Non-toxic cosmetics and face paint provide a good alternative to create scary faces.
• Go out during the day if possible and carry a flashlight in case you are delayed past dusk.
• Choose costume props that are soft and flexible to avoid injury.
• Wear costumes that fit properly to avoid tripping hazards.
• Young children should be accompanied by an adult.
Despite all best intentions, emergencies do occur. Have a plan and make sure your family knows what to do if they are separated or encounter a dangerous situation.
“Teach children how to call 911 or their local emergency number if they have an emergency or become lost,” said Engel.
Bonney Lake Police Department
Bonney Lake Police Officer Daron Wolschleger urges everyone, children and adults alike, to behave on Halloween. Children and teens may be tempted to pull pranks but vandalism is a quick way to drain the fun out of an otherwise festive evening. Here are a few more tips from Wolschleger:
• Avoid people you don’t know. Visit homes you’re familiar with and don’t put yourself in dangerous situations.
• Stay in groups.
• Wear bright, reflective clothing and carry flashlights or glow sticks. Stay in well-lit areas when possible. Doing so increases your visibility to drivers but it also prevents group members from getting lost.
• Examine all candy for suspicious alterations. Don’t consume anything that is unpackaged or tampered with.
• Adults should assign a designated driver if they plan on drinking. Local law enforcement will have DUI emphasis patrols out.
“Halloween can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Lead by example and follow the same rules you expect others to,” he said. “Be aware of possible hazards and don’t put yourself in dangerous situations. Our goal is for everyone to have a safe and happy Halloween.”
