Newport Beach Fire Department Issues Tips for a Safe Halloween

The streets will be filled today with children seeking candy and treats, but parents need to make sure common sense safety is a top priority.

• Children should only go to well-lit homes with outside lights on and should remain on the porch to receive treats.
• Children should trick-or-treat in small groups, while young children should always be accompanied by an adult.
• Children and parents should cross streets at the corner and use crosswalks. Remind children to look left, right and then left again before crossing the street.
• Children should walk, and not run from house to house and always use sidewalks.
• Avoid giving out treats that could become a choking hazard such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys especially to small children.
• Use battery powered lights – NEVER CANDLES – to light jack-o-lanterns.
• Children should be warned not to eat any of their treats before they get home.
• Inspect all candy for safety and when in doubt throw it out!
• Bags or sacks should be light colored or trimmed with reflective tape.
• Carry a flashlight or glow sticks.

If you're driving around tonight, be sure to take the following precautions.

• Watch for children darting out from between parked cars.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
• Watch for children walking in dark colored costumes who are harder to see at twilight or later in the evening.

Happy Halloween!