Safety Tips For A Fun And Safe Halloween

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SURREY – Jack-o-lanterns, costumes and treats! Halloween can be a fun time for all ages, but it does come with hidden dangers that can be truly scary. Fortunately, by following some simple safety precautions from the City of Surrey Fire Services, RCMP and By-laws, you can ensure a night of safe fun for your family and trick-or-treaters.

Surrey RCMP spokesperson Sergeant Dale Carr says, “As Halloween falls on a Friday this year, Surrey RCMP will have additional resources assisting front line officers to ensure the safety of all who take part during the trick-or- treat hours. The main objective is to maintain high police visibility and control any unsafe situations that might occur on Halloween night.”

Fireworks in the City of Surrey are not permitted to be discharged. The only exception is with a Fire Department permit and Federal fireworks supervisor certificate. “Since the City implemented the Fireworks By-law in 2005, we have seen a dramatic decrease in fires caused by fireworks”, reports Karen Fry, Deputy Chief with Surrey Fire Service. “From a high of 40 fireworks related fires in 2004, we now are only seeing on average 3 per year since 2005.”

Selling fireworks in the City of Surrey is also prohibited, “By-law Officers are targeting the illegal sales of fireworks in the City of Surrey, anyone caught selling fireworks is subject to $500.00 fine,” says Jas Rehal, Manager of By-law and Licensing Services.

Here are more tips for a fun and safe Halloween:

•             Make sure trick-or-treaters don’t criss-cross roads and only cross at marked intersections.

•             Carry a flashlight or glow-stick to make yourself and children more visible.

•             Costumes should be made with reflective material and be made of flame-resistant material.

•             Use LED lights instead of candles in your jack-o-lanterns.

•             Decorations should be kept away from heat sources.

•             Don’t overload electrical cords and power-bars.

•             “Fake” swords, knives and guns part of your costume? Make sure they look fake, but remember some people still may not be able to tell the difference.

•             Talk to your children about being ‘street smart’ before they go out on their own, or better yet, have an adult or older sibling accompany them.

•             Bring your treats home and inspect them before eating them. Many children suffer from allergies and all spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items should be thrown out.