EMS PSA - Halloween Safety
As a member of Calgary’s Child Magazine Partners for Safety initiative,
AHS EMS would like to remind parents and trick-or-treaters of Halloween safety tips as October 31st approaches. Partners for Safety vehicles will be out patrolling communities on Halloween night to provide a visible safety resource for parents and trick-or-treaters.
Trick-or-Treaters
• Remember: all regular pedestrian rules still apply. Be sure to cross the road at marked crosswalks, or well-lit corners only. It is safest to work your way up one side of the street and then cross once to the other side.
• You may choose to avoid houses that are not well lit. Do not accept rides from strangers or enter any home you feel is unsafe.
• Let your parents know where you are going to be (route) and advise them if you will be late returning.
Parents
• Be certain that an adult accompanies young trick-or-treaters. Older children should stay in groups.
• Pre-determine boundaries to trick-or-treat within and establish a time to return home.
• Advise children not to eat anything until they return home. Dispose of any items that have been tampered with, or that are not properly wrapped.
Costumes
• Choose bright colored costumes that are highly visible. Adding reflective tape to costumes further increases visibility.
• Consider sending your children with a flashlight for additional safety and increased visibility.
• When purchasing, or making costumes, look for materials and accessories labeled flame-resistant.
• All costume accessories, such as sticks, rods, or wands, should be soft and flexible, with no sharp edges.
• Consider using hypoallergenic make-up kits instead of masks that may impair breathing, or vision.
• Be sure costumes are loose enough to be worn over warm clothing, but not so long that they become a tripping hazard. Costumes should not be longer than your child’s ankles.
• Ensure your child is wearing adequate footwear that takes into consideration weather conditions and walking.
