The Greenwood Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD) has provided guidance on how families with children can safely celebrate Halloween, with the holiday approaching in less than two weeks.
According to GVFD, a comprehensive list of safety tips was shared in an October 19 Facebook post. The first recommendation advises against using costumes with long trailing fabric. Additionally, masks should have eye holes large enough for children to see clearly.
Because trick-or-treating typically occurs around sundown, parents and guardians are encouraged to equip children with flashlights or glow sticks for visibility in the dark.
A significant portion of the advice focuses on fire safety. The department emphasizes the importance of ensuring that smoke alarms throughout homes are operational.
Homeowners planning to use jack-o-lanterns with lighting are advised to opt for battery-operated candles or glow sticks inside them. GVFD strongly recommends exercising extreme caution if real candles are used, noting that decorations are often the first items to ignite in over 800 reported home fires annually, with approximately 33% of those fires attributed to candles.
Lit jack-o-lanterns should be placed away from flammable materials and positioned out of the path of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways, and yards.
Children attending Halloween parties at other houses should identify exits and plan their escape routes in case of an emergency.
Founded in 1984, GVFD serves the unincorporated community of Greenwood in Midland County, located ten miles east of Midland city proper.