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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 3:54 p.m., Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Fire department offers Halloween safety tips

Advertiser Staff

The Honolulu Fire Department is offering the following Halloween safety tips:

For trick-or-treaters

• Go only to homes where the lights are on and you know the people.

• Never trick-or-treat alone. Go with at least two friends.

• Never enter a home or accept a ride in a car while trick-or-treating.

• Stay in familiar neighborhoods.

• Carry a flashlight to help see and be seen.

• Use reflective tape on candy bags to be better seen by motorists.

• Look in all directions before crossing the street.

• Do not cut across yards or driveways.

• Do not run; walk from house to house to avoid tripping hazards.

• Walk on sidewalks, not in the street.

• Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic, if there are no sidewalks.

• Do not wear masks when walking from house to house so you can see properly.

• Older children: Wear a watch, know when you are due home, and carry quarters to call home if necessary.

For adults

• Always accompany young trick-or-treaters.

• Older children should know where to reach you and when to be home.

• Drive carefully and watch for excited youngsters darting into the street.

• Plan and discuss the route trick-or-treaters intend to follow.

• Know the names of the children's friends.

• Inspect candy before it is eaten. When in doubt, throw it out.

• Ensure your home is well-lit and has a clear path to your door.

• Use flashlights instead of candles when illuminating Jack-O-Lanterns.

• IF YOU USE CANDLES, KEEP THEM AWAY FROM COSTUMES, CURTAINS, OR ANYTHING THAT CAN CATCH FIRE!!!

Costumes

• Use reflective markings or tape on costumes.

• Wear light and bright costumes that are clearly visible to motorists.

• Choose costumes made with flame-retardant material when possible.

• Avoid tripping; ensure costumes do not drag on the ground.

Smoke alarms

• Halloween is a good time to inspect your smoke alarms. This year, treat yourself and your family by buying batteries for your smoke alarms! Then on Oct. 31, replace your smoke alarm batteries and have a safe and happy Halloween.