Halloween: Tips for a Spooky Safe Time!

Halloween falls on a Friday this year which is great for parents and kids alike! No school the next day means a night of trick or treating plus sleeping in the next day. While this time of year brings spooky fun and dressing up as your favorite characters, it is also a time when safety becomes an important topic.

Check out some tips from Cell Phone Sally on how to have a happy Halloween as well as a safe and smart holiday:

• Always buddy up when trick or treating. Walk in groups with a trusted adult.
• Avoid costumes that are too dark. Light and reflective clothing is best. Fasten reflective tape onto costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
• Make sure to examine all the candy when you get home. Check for any choking hazards or candy that has been tampered with. And don’t eat too much candy when you get home- it could make you sick to your stomach.
• Take a flashlight with you to help guide your way in the dark.
• Always look both ways before crossing the street. Cars move fast so be aware of your surroundings.
• Enter homes ONLY if you are with a trusted adult. And never under any circumstances accept a ride from a stranger.
• Carry a cell phone with you to make sure you can contact help in case of an emergency.
• If you are ever in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.

 Looking for more safety tips? Check out some information from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: http://www.cpsc.gov//PageFiles/121343/100.pdf.  We hope everyone has a wonderful Halloween!

 

It’s Fire Prevention Week!

October 5^th through the 11^th marks Fire Prevention Week. During this time, it is important to promote fire safety and prevention. Many times, fire hazards can go undetected. But if you follow these important tips in this blog, you will be well on your way to fireproofing your home!

What are some examples of fires that happen at home? Many times fires in the home are caused by candles left burning, cigarettes left burning, stoves left on and children playing with matches or lighters. But all of these incidences can be avoided with a little common sense and an effort to protect your home and family.

Fire Safety Checklist:

ü  Keep flammable items like bedding and curtains (including clothing too!) far from portable heaters or lit candles

ü  Install and check twice a year working smoke alarms throughout your home. Also make sure you change the battery at least once a year.

ü  Create an emergency escape plan in case of a fire. Designate escape routes and practice them with your family. It could save your life!

ü  Make sure each of your family members know how to Stop, Drop and Roll in the event that their clothing would catch fire.

ü  Don’t store old mattresses in the home or the garage.

ü  Don’t let children play with matches or lighters and let them know these are not toys. Matches and lighters, like medications and chemicals, should be stored high up and out of reach of curious children. J

 

In case of a fire, remember to always call 9-1-1 for help and know your location. It could save your life!

Want to test your knowledge and see if you are fire prevention ready? Click here: http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/fire-prevention-week/fire-prevention-week-quiz.

Here are some facts about fires in the home: http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/fire-prevention-week/fast-facts-about-fire

NFPA Launches free App for Fire Prevention Week: http://sparkyschoolhouse.org/