Avoid unexpected frights this Halloween!

Safety tips from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service

Halloween is scary enough without the fear of an unexpected fire. That's why Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service is sharing important fire prevention reminders to keep you and your loved ones safe and avoid an unexpected fright.

Whether you're planning to go trick-or-treating, or stay home and hand out candy, follow these tips to ensure you and your family can enjoy Halloween festivities safely:

• Choose safer alternatives to traditional candles, like battery-operated candles, flashlights and glow sticks to light up your jack-o'-lantern and other Halloween decorations. If you use candles, never leave them unattended and keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable.

• Purchase Halloween costumes (including wigs and props) labelled flame-resistant or flame-retardant. If you're making your own props or outfit, choose materials that won't easily ignite and avoid billowing or long trailing features like capes.

• Keep your home exits clear of decorations to ensure nothing blocks your escape routes in the event of a fire.

• Make sure children know to "stop, drop and roll" if their clothing catches fire - stop immediately, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands and roll around to extinguish flames.

• Choose the right extension cord for the job - there are special ones for outdoor use. Remember, extension cords are for temporary use only.

• Only use an approved power bar marked with a ULC or CSA symbol and never overload electrical outlets by plugging in too many devices.

• Test your smoke alarms to make sure they work. This is also a great time to install new batteries.

Visit vaughan.ca/firefor more fire safety tips.

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