| As Halloween approaches, the officers and members of the Ridge Volunteer Fire Department would like to remind citizens in and out of our first due that with Halloween comes basic reminders and guidelines. The first and foremost thing is that if your driving on Halloween night, please be very aware of the children on the streets. Children young enough to begin walking could be out on the streets and are not very cautious when it comes to streets. Remember, cars will usually be parked on the side of the road so the children can get out and go trick-or-treating, so watch for children darting out from the middle of vehicles. Also, be aware of children getting in and out of vehicles. The CDC also has made a list that can be easy to remember.
Going Trick-Or-Treating?
S - Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.
A - Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
F - Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
E - Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.
H - Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you.
A - Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent skin and eye irritation.
L - Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
L - Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
O - Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
W - Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.
E - Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats unless you know the cook well.
E - Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Otherwise, stay outside.
N - Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
Expecting trick-or-treaters or party guests?
- Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters, such as individual packs of raisins, trail mix, or pretzels. For party guests, offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.
- Use party games and trick-or-treat time as an opportunity for kids to get their daily dose of 60 minutes of physical activity.
- Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles that could result in falls.
- Keep candle-lit jack-o'-lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways, landings, and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
- Remind drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters and to drive safely.
The Ridge Volunteers would also like to remind you to visit our annual Boo-Thru which happens at our firehouse located at 13820 Point Lookout Road in Ridge. The event will begin at 6PM on Halloween night. Those that can make it through will get a bag of treats at the end. Have a safe and happy Halloween! |
