Happy Halloween

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C.-  Halloween is expected to be busier than usual this year because  of the Friday night  fun,  and Prince George, RCMP are  prepared.

Constable Godwin says  a full contingent of officers will be working tonight including plain clothes, the dog unit, reservists, auxilliary and  two City Safety Officers. Constable  Godwin  says  people need to  remember firecrackers are illegal.  "Anyone found with firecrackers will have the firecrackers seized and could face charges."   Only those who are 19  can  possess,  use or detonate fireworks.

Candles and open flames are also an issue.  According to the Office of the Fire Commissioner, B.C.'s 14,000  firefighters can also anticipate a busy weekend. In 2007, when Halloween fell on a Wednesday, it was by far the top day for reported
fires, with 82. The average number of fires, largely caused by open-flame sources like candles, typically increases by half over the three days between Oct. 30 and Nov. 1.

To help curb some of the most common, preventable causes of injury and  property loss associated with Halloween, the Province has issued some reminders:

• Choose flame-resistant or -retardant costumes and accessories that don't billow or have long trailing features. Ensure your child's costume does not impede their vision.
• Always escort your young children door-to-door on Halloween night, and remind older children who may be out on their own not to enter strangers' homes. Children of all ages should skip houses that don't have porch lights on, and avoid unfamiliar animals.
• Incorporate a lightweight flashlight as part of your child's costume, instead of asking them to carry one. This will help to ensure the flashlight doesn't get lost or turned off. As well, give your child a reflective trick-or-treat bag for added visibility.
• When driving in the evening and after dark, be extra cautious and slow down. Watch for young trick-or-treaters, who may be wearing dark clothing, crossing streets without looking, or dashing between cars.
• Plan ahead for a safe ride home if you are attending house parties or nightclubs.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated candles to light decorations. If you do use candles, however, place them in a holder or dish, or on material that won't catch fire - and keep them in a draft-free area away from curtains and decorations.
• Never hold lit fireworks or throw or point them at others. Always read and follow the label directions. Fireworks can reach temperatures of 650 C (1,200 F) and should be handled by adults only. Keep water nearby and do not use fireworks in windy  conditions or near your home or other structures.
• Last, but not least, parents should tell their kids not to eat treats before their parents check them. Discard treats that aren't in sealed packaging or look suspicious. When in doubt, throw it out!

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