Kingston Fire and Rescue offers simple tips for a safe Halloween
On Thursday, Oct. 28, Kingston Fire and Rescue (KFR) held a media event to explain some of the fire prevention and safety tips to keep in mind this Halloween.
“We know everyone is excited to celebrate Halloween, but one thing that should remain consistent is our attention to fire safety!” said KRF Fire Inspector Delbert Blakney, who hosted the demonstrations on what to do and what not to do to ensure the only scares you get on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021 are those of a more traditional Halloween nature.
Blakney offered the following tips “to keep all the ghouls, goblins, and superheroes safe”:
Fire Safety at Home
- Never use candles in decorative paper bags or jack-o-lanterns. Instead, use battery-operated lights or glow sticks.
- If you absolutely must use a candle, use a tea light in a non-combustible holder.
- Never leave a lit candle unattended.
- Place candlelit pumpkins on sturdy surfaces away from areas that may come in contact with costumes, curtains, or other combustible materials. Always keep children and pets away from candles.
- Never overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and always keep exit doors unobstructed.
Fire Safety while Trick-or-Treating
- The best costumes are fire resistant and reflective. Keep costumes ankle length or higher, avoid loose clothing and capes to reduce the chance of tripping, and minimize the risk of contact with candles.
- Teach children to STOP, DROP and ROLL should their clothing catch fire.
- STOP immediately.
- DROP to the ground while covering face.
- ROLL to extinguish the flames.
- Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight with fresh batteries or glow sticks and reinforce the importance of traffic safety rules.
- Ensure an adult guardian accompanies the trick-or-treaters.
- Motorists: Be extra careful when behind the wheel.
“Halloween is a fun event — let’s keep it that way. Please do your part to ensure we all have a safe and happy October 31,” Blakney said.
