Fire Marshal Offers Tips for a Safe Halloween

It's that time of year again, time to dress up your home with eerie coloured lights, carved pumpkins and squeamish decorations. This Halloween Robert Cormier, Nova Scotia's fire marshal, is urging everyone to remember safety first.

"Halloween is a fun night for kids and adults alike," said Mr. Cormier. "I ask everyone to take all safety precautions to ensure a fun night with lasting happy Halloween memories."

He urges children to wear make-up instead of masks, and bright, flame resistant, reflective costumes. All children and their escorts should also carry flashlights with fresh batteries or glow sticks.

Parents should make sure their children's shoes fit properly and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame. The principle of stop-drop-roll should be reviewed with children just as a precaution should their clothes catch fire.

Decorating your home is a great way to celebrate the spirit of Halloween. For safe home decorations use flashlights to light Jack-o-lanterns, not candles. Never cover light bulbs with paper or other combustible materials. Make sure haunted houses for public entertainment purposes have been inspected by local fire officials. By law, if you plan to set off fireworks you must have permission from the local fire chief and must be at least 18 years of age.

The fire marshal also asks motorists to drive more slowly through residential areas. Teach children how to call 911 if they have an emergency or become lost. Remember, 911 can be dialed free at any pay telephone. As well, don't forget to display your Block Parent signs prominently.

David Morse, Minister of Environment and Labour, is asking everyone to follow the fire marshal's advice.

"Halloween is a great time for the young and the young-at-heart," said Mr. Morse. "Our province's fire marshal has great tips for safe trick-or-treating. Make sure you take time to discuss these tips in your household and have a safe and happy Halloween."

For more information on fire safety please check out our Web site www.gov.ns.ca/enla/ or contact your local police or fire departments. Have a safe Halloween.