Kent Fire Department offers Halloween safety tips

Published 2:03 pm Tuesday, October 29, 2013

While out trick-or-treating, keep on the lookout for firefighters from the Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority.

The firefighters will be in local neighborhoods handing out small red flashers that the kids can attach to their costumes to make them more visible. By wearing the flashers the kids and parents can make Halloween a safe night of fun.

• The Kent Fire Departments offers the following safety tips:

Young children should always have adult supervision

Pick costumes that have bright colors

Avoid masks or other headgear that limits peripheral vision – use face makeup instead of a mask

Add reflective material to costumes

Carry a flashlight

Cross streets carefully and use sidewalks where available

Wear your fire department issued red flasher

Trick-or-treat in neighborhoods you are familiar with

Never eat candy not in its original wrapper

Plan your path so that others will know where you are

Never enter a house unless you know the residents well

• House safety during Halloween:

Keep your porch well lit

Remove tripping hazards such as garden hoses, bikes, and toys

Keep excitable pets away from children

• Remember that most schools have a zero tolerance for weapons. If your children’s costumes have a weapon (or anything that could be considered a weapon) as a prop, leave it at home if attending a school costume party.