Expect to see ghouls, witches and spooky skeleton costumes aplenty this weekend as Halloween festivities get started around Ireland. Ensure you and your little pumpkins stay safe this Halloween with these quick Irish Red Cross tips:
BE SEEN
The evenings are shorter and darker at this time of year, be sure you can be seen by motorists:
• Wear reflective arm bands and/or tape added to outfits and bags will help ensure visibility
• Be sure to give motorists and all road users sufficient time to stop or pass
• Where available always use a designated crossing zone
• Never cross between cars or on a blind corner
TRICK OR TREATING
As the kids go door to door showing off their scary costumes and collecting goodies, supervision and safety are paramount.
• Children should always accompanied by an adult when trick or treating
• Take a torch
• Children should carry a parent’s phone number in case they are separated from the group
• Agree in advance what streets you will visit
• Avoid dogs, even if you know them, as fireworks can startle even the friendliest dog
• Avoid knocking on the doors of elderly neighbours
SAFE FANCY DRESS COSTUMES
Looking the part for Halloween is half the fun. Ensure that costumes don’t present any safety hazards on the night:
• Ensure that fancy dress costumes are flame-resistant (look for the CE mark)
• Beware of any small parts on which a child could choke (look for the CE mark)
• Make sure that the costume length will not cause the child to trip
• Double check masks to ensure that children can see, hear and breath (look for the CE mark)
BONFIRES AND FIREWORKS
Although the purchase and use of fireworks are illegal in Ireland, they remain a constant health and safety risk at Halloween. Here are a few things to bear in mind when around bonfires and fireworks.
• Keep a safe distance from bonfires at all times
• Never approach a firework that has failed to go off
• Know how to treat a burn
• Keep pets indoors to avoid them being injured by fireworks or bonfires
Have a safe and happy Halloween!
