PARENTAL TIPS

• An adult should always accompany children under 12 years of age.
• Do not use open flame candles in jack-o-lanterns. Commercially available battery lights are much safer and do not pose a fire hazard.
• Parents should never let their children carve a pumpkin unsupervised.
• Do not hand out homemade or unwrapped candies to children.
• Parents should plan a route for your child to use while trick-or-treating and set an early return time for your child.
• To welcome trick-or-treaters, switch on your porch lights or any exterior lights.

TRICK OR TREAT TIPS

• Do not go inside anyone’s house. Remain on the stoop or porch at all times.
• Do not go into a stranger’s automobile.
• Do not take shortcuts through backyards, alleys, or parks.
• Walk don’t run.
• When crossing the street look both ways. Do not cross in between cars.
• Always use the sidewalk.
• Trick-or-treat on well-lit streets within your neighborhood.
• Children should always travel in a group.
• Use the buddy system, and make sure you have at least one buddy with you the entire evening.
• When you return home, have an adult examine and discard all candies that are not factory sealed or wrapped by the candy manufacturer. Never eat homemade or unwrapped treats.
• Never accept candy from strangers.
• Children should carry spare change in case of an emergency and they need to call home.

COSTUME TIPS

• Only purchase and use flame retardant costumes.
• Children should wear white, reflective clothing, or use reflective tape and carry either a flashlight or glow stick.
• Costumes should fit properly avoid loose or baggy costumes.
• Avoid any type of open flame while wearing costume.
• Encourage children to wear face paint as oppose to a mask. Face paint should be non-toxic and meet FDA standards.
• If mask is worn, make sure that the eye, mouth and nose openings are large enough to ensure adequate breathing and full range of vision.
• Children should never carry sharp objects. Ensure that all props are made of material that is flexible and nonrealistic looking.
• Materials made of 100% polyester or modacrylics are best for making homemade costumes. They are less flammable. 100% polyester and modacrylics may be purchased at most local fabric stores.
• REMEMBER – A flame-retardant costume does not mean that it is fire proof. Always keep your costume away from any type of open flame or other heat sources.

TIPS FOR MOTORISTS

• Be aware of children darting out between parked automobiles.
• Use caution while entering and exiting driveways.
• During twilight and evening hours be mindful of children in dark costumes.

The FDNY wishes you a safe and fun Halloween!