Whether on the job or at home, we should all be mindful of the “little things” that can impact our safety, as well as the safety of those around us. This Halloween, don’t be “tricked” into doing something unsafe. “Treat” yourself and your loved ones by embracing the fun activities surrounding your local Halloween festivities. But, before you do, please take a moment and consider some of these simple safety guidelines:
- Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure shoes fit well and costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flames.
- Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and treat bags.
- While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack-O-Lantern, leave the carving to adults.
- Always keep Jack-O-Lanterns and hot electric lamps away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets may be standing or walking.
- Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.
- Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods and at homes that have a porch light on.
- Remain on well-lit streets and use the sidewalk when available.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.
- Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, an adult
should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
- Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or
a decorative hat as a safe alternative.
- When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories; purchase only those with a label
indicating they are flame resistant.
- Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their guardians.
- Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical light sticks in place of candles in
decorations and costumes.
- Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.
- Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.
Our Risk Solutions team encourages you to put these practices into place–doing so helps ensure your safety. Halloween safety is no accident; be safe.