PGFD Offers Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips

Trick-or-treating is what children look most forward to every Halloween, while showing off their costumes and collecting pillowcases of treats from their neighbors.

But, the Prince George's County Fire Department warns that this tradition could also be dangerous in the dark evening hours and offers these tips so children and their parents remain safe while on the hunt for sweets.

• Costumes should be made of flame resistant light-colored fabric or have reflective qualities and be should be short enough so as not to interfere with walking or become entangled. Facial makeup rather than masks, help children see better.
• Children should carry flashlights and not use candles or torches, discuss the proposed route, time of return with parents and take friends along with them. An adult should always accompany younger children. 
• Children should always use sidewalks and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Motorists should avoid all unnecessary travel on Halloween evening, and when driving they should drive slowly and be alert to small children crossing streets. Many accidents occur when motorists are backing vehicles out of driveways, unaware of the presence of small children.
• Parents should sort through candy when it arrives home with their children. Look for unwrapped pieces and other candy that could be tampered with.
• Neighbors receiving trick-or-treaters should keep a light on and remove items in the walkway that could become a tripping hazard. 

For adults that may not be trick-or-treating, but want to enjoy and celebrate Halloween, the fire department reminds them to:

• Never drink and drive.
• Always wear your seat belt and ensure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up as well. 
• If you are wearing a costume – vehicle occupants, including the driver, should not wear a mask or head dressing as this may block the view of the driver.  
• Be aware that there are still many trick-or-treaters walking and crossing streets – slow your speed and use extreme care while driving. 
• Use battery powered illumination instead of candles at your Halloween celebration, including inside of your carved pumpkin.

Stay safe and Happy Halloween from Patch!