The Grand Junction Fire Department would like
to remind citizens that planning ahead can help make this Halloween
a fire-safe one. Taking simple fire safety precautions, like
making sure fabrics for costumes and decorative materials are
flame resistant, can prevent fires. During 1999, decorations for
special events such as Halloween, accounted for an estimated 1,000
home fires, most often involving candles, causing five civilian
deaths, and $10.7 million in direct property damage.The Grand
Junction Fire Department urges everyone to take the time to make
this Halloween safe for everyone.
Following these tips will have you on
your way to safe Trick-or-Treating!
Use cylume/glow sticks or flashlights to illuminate
Jack-O-Lanterns instead of candles.
Have adults make sure costumes are fire-safe (there
should be a flame-resistant or flame-retardant label on store
bought costumes, wigs, and props).
Costumes should not have baggy sleeves or billowing
capes, they could easily catch on fire if you brush against a
candle or Jack-O-Lantern.
Be on the lookout and stay away from open flames
(candles, Jack-O-Lanterns, or torches)
If your clothes catch fire, make sure to STOP, DROP, COVER YOUR FACE, AND ROLL
over and over to put the fire out. It’s always a good
idea to practice how to stop, drop, and roll.
Make your costumes nice and bright so drivers can
see you- use reflective tape or carry glow sticks or a flashlight.
Follow the rules of the road: When crossing the
street, stop at the curb or edge of the road- look left, then
right, then left again for moving vehicles before crossing. Children
10 years old or younger should cross the street with the help
of an adult.
Make sure an adult goes with you when Trick-or-Treating.
Lastly, have adults check your candy before you
eat it! And don’t forget to brush your teeth afterwards!!!
