Halloween safety tips for trick-or-treaters

Police and fire departments in Kelowna and Vernon have issued some safety tips for people who are out trick or treating on Wednesday night.

“On average, the fire department will receive anywhere from 40 to 60 calls on Halloween night,” said Gayanne Pacholzuk, fire prevention officer with the Kelowna Fire Department. “Mostly these are related to burning or medical distress.”

“We often find an increase in nuisance, noise and fireworks related calls on Halloween,” said Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey with the Kelowna RCMP. “As a result, we work closely with the Kelowna Fire Department to ensure the public is celebrating safely.”

Emergency first responders will be vigilant on Halloween night and ready to respond when needed.

In addition, RCMP volunteers will be out patrolling neighbourhoods acting as extra eyes and ears for general duty officers.

Firefighters from Station 7 in Southeast Kelowna will also be set up on the corner of Spaarpak and Kimatouche Roads handing out candy and hot chocolate to trick-or-treaters.

Residents are reminded that the use of fireworks and firecrackers are not permitted in the City of Kelowna. Trick or treating tips: — Choose a costume that is bright, visible and without long trailing fabric that could catch a flame

— Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks so cars can easily see them

— Stick to the sidewalk: do not jaywalk.

— Have an adult or an older teenager accompany young children trick-or-treating

— Keep all decorations away from open flames, especially dried flowers, crepe paper and cornstalks

— Instead of an open flame, use a battery-operated candle in jack-o-lanterns

— Ensure costumes with fake weapons are easily identified as fake

— Teach children to stop, drop and roll if their costume catches fire

— Check your children’s candy before letting them eat it. Avoid homemade treats or un-wrapped candy.