Halloween | Humberside Fire

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Halloween pumpkins 2022 10 18 111500 qemk

Halloween can be great fun for the whole family, but naked flames and cheap costumes can be a dangerous combination.

There are multiple dangers associated with the American tradition of 'trick-or-treat'. Here are just a few tips to keep youngsters as safe as they can be if they are venturing out to visit friends and neighbours on a dark evening:

For parents:

Make or buy costumes made from light-coloured materials.
Avoid, where possible, plastic and synthetic fabrics that can easily catch fire.
Attach strips of reflective tape to both the front and back of costumes to enhance visibility for drivers.
Dress your child appropriately for the weather and consider adding extra layers if necessary.

If your child is going out without an adult:

Make sure your child is part of a group of at least three.
Provide them with a torch and, if available, a charged mobile phone.
Discuss the agreed route they should follow and instruct them to contact you if they intend to go a different way.
Whenever possible, avoid crossing main roads and railway crossings.

For children:

Don't go to houses that are dark (don’t have lights or decorations on) and never go into a stranger's house.
Avoid going to houses where older or vulnerable people live, as they might not enjoy Halloween as much as you do!
Try to visit the homes of your friends, family, or nearby neighbours.
Watch out for candles near doorsteps.
If your costume catches fire, remember to STOP, DROP and ROLL.

For homeowners:

Turn on outdoor lights and replace any bulbs that are not working.
Remove items from your driveway or porch that could make a child trip.
Clear away wet leaves from your steps and driveway.
Use items like torches, LED lights, or battery-operated candles instead of real candles for your decorations.
Some children have allergies, so consider offering treats like stickers, pens, or stamps.
If you don't want to take part in trick-or-treating, you can put a polite note on your door.

For drivers:

Be careful when you see small groups of people walking on the pavement and near places where they might cross the road.
Drive to road conditions and adhere to speed limits.
Slow down in neighbourhoods where there might be groups of people, often wearing dark clothing and Halloween outfits crossing the road.