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7 tips on how to stay safe on Halloween | CBC News

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Health Canada shares tips on how to stay safe this Halloween.

‘Stay vigilant for fire hazards and prevent injuries while getting into the spirit,’ says Health Canada

Child wearing blue and white costume carrying a pail of candy steps down a set of stairs.
A little girl trick-or-treats in a Toronto neighbourhood on Oct. 31, 2022. (Evan Mitsui/CBC)

It’s the most wonderful time of fear.

Halloween is just around the corner. Although dressing up and trick-or-treating can be fun for children and adults alike, some costumes and decorations can be hazardous, including a fire threat.

Here are some tips from Health Canada on how to have a safe, hazard-free Halloween.

Choose the right costume and avoid danger when decorating

  1. Choose costumes that are less likely to catch fire, such as those made of nylon or heavyweight polyester. Baggy oversized costumes and accessories such as wigs, rails and wings can be hazardous near candles. 

  2. To increase visibility at night, wear brightly coloured clothing or add reflective tape.

  3. Choose costumes that fit well and can be worn over warm clothing to protect your child against cold and wet weather. Avoid costumes that are too big or with dangling pieces that could be tripping hazards. 

  4. Make sure your costumes, decorations and accessories are not subject to a recall by consulting the Health Canada recall and safety alerts database.

  5. Opt for flashlights or battery-operated candles instead of candles, lighters and matches to avoid creating a hazard for children. 

  6. Check indoor and outdoor decorative lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Do not overload extension cords.

  7. Make sure the lights are certified by a recognized organization like the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the Underwriters’ Laboratory of Canada (ULC).

For more tips, visit Health Canada’s Halloween Safety website

Two people stand in front of a house decked out in a Halloween display.
Health Canada says choosing the right costume and avoiding danger when decorating are key at Halloween. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press)
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