Fire tips for a safe Halloween
9/28/2020 (Permalink)
We like to talk about safety especially here at Halloween. But this year Halloween is going to be a little different due the pandemic. But what is not going to change is that you and your neighbors will still decorate. You might still carve a pumpkin for your own enjoyment. If you do consider a battery-operated light. If you do use candles to decorate with never leave them unattended and ensure they are out of reach of children and pets. When decorating with string lights be sure not to overload the plug. Check the package for how may strings of lights can be safely used with the product. This will help avoid an electrical fire.
If you do a bonfire to gathering of 50 or less outdoors, be sure to check local restrictions and social distance. Keep sand and a water hose nearby. Ensure kids with long flowing costumes are kept back, well away from the fire and embers. You will also want to place it well away from the house or out buildings. Be sure to pick up loose and dead vegetation so that it does not lead the fire from a controlled area.
If you are trick or treating, costumes should be functional to avoid tripping hazards and flame retardant. Avoid passing by lit jack-o-lanterns that may be lit with candles. Be sure the wearer has good clear view to avoid tripping hazard.
The CDC is discouraging a conventional Halloween but offers these lower risk alternatives.
- Carving or decorating pumpkins with members of your household and displaying them
- Carving or decorating pumpkins outside, at a safe distance, with neighbors or friends
- Decorating your house, apartment, or living space
- Doing a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given lists of Halloween-themed things to look for while they walk outdoors from house to house admiring Halloween decorations at a distance
- Having a virtual Halloween costume contest
- Having a Halloween movie night with people you live with
- Having a scavenger hunt-style trick-or-treat search with your household members in or around your home rather than going house to house
We here at SERVPRO of West Forsyth County hope you have a safe and happy Halloween! If you need us for fire damage to your home or office call us directly at 336-946-1131