The film industry has captivated audiences with Twilight, Avatar and soon to be released, Harry Potter. The costumes this year will be outrageous and fun. However, we must remember to have fun while staying safe. Saber has posted great Halloween Safety tips for trick-o-treaters, costumers and the party-goers. As Halloween approaches, fun and parties are sure to be at the forefront. However, caution should also be important so that everyone can have fun and party in safety! Here are some Halloween safety tips for trick-o-treating, costumers and partying times.
Trick-o-Treaters
1. For the youngsters, have two bags. One for your neighborhood, the people you know and one for when you go outside your neighborhood/strangers.
2. Do not eat treats until adult has carefully examined all the candy thoroughly.
3. Stay away from dark and low-lighted areas, be sure to stay on well-lite sidewalks.
4. Stay away from houses that do not have their porch light on which indicates they are not anticipating in Halloween.
5. Many of the ministries around town offer their own Halloween costume party. Visit local churches, malls, downtown businesses for trick-o-treating. Sometimes, they even have special Halloween candy, gifts or promotions that benefit all in a safe manner.
Costumers
1. Check the labels on the costume to ensure they are fire-retardant.
2. Be sure your costume is comfortable and it is not restricting your movement, circulation and breathing.
3. Wear a homemade face rather than a mask. If you are wearing a mask, be sure it does not block your vision. Read the labels on mask. Some mask have paint that may contain lead which can be inhaled while wearing it.
4. If your costume has a tail or anything hanging, be careful when you walk so you don't trip. Especially with kids, if they're riding their bikes, the tail could get caught in the wheel.
5. Be aware of draw strings. It can get caught around your neck. For kids, this can cause choking.
6. Wear reflective tapes on your costumes so that when you are trick-o-treating, passer-bys will be able to see you in the dark.
Party Goers
1. Safety in groups - go out with friends, coworkers, neighbors, it's always safer in groups.
2. Decide on a designated driver or work out an arrangement with local cab companies that you have used before. They want to provide the city with quality service and get everyone to their destinations safely.
3. Let people know where you are going to be and what time you are expected back. No, you're not a teenager, but a responsible adult. Just in case something happens, people want to be able to have accurate accounts to ensure your safety.
4. Eat FOOD to offset the alcohol
5. Sign up for e-alerts at Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department (Twitter , Facebook, Blog)
Halloween can be great fun. Dressing up in costumes, trick-o-treating, costume contests, parties, the whole nine yards, but your fun can rudely be interrupted with dangerous distractions. Be careful. Use the tips to help you make sound decisions during this Halloween.
Remember, on October 31, 2010, Stay Safe!