Halloween is a sweet time of year; one carved out of creativity and a chance to exchange a trick-or-treat greeting with candy galore.

 

But if precautions aren’t taken and carelessness prevails, it can also be a scary and dangerous night. Members of Bridgeport Fire Department and Emergency Services shared some suggestions for keeping your little ghosts and goblins safe.

 

It can be heartwarming to see the little ones scampering from house to house, but Bridgeport Fire Department Captain Steve Gallo, a 15-year veteran of the department, said that annually he and his fellow firefighters/paramedics hold their breath that someone isn’t hit by a car or otherwise injured.

 

“It scares us to death,” he said. “One of the best things parents can do is put something reflective on the costumes – reflective tape or even carry a flashlight – something that will alert motorists that kids are out there.”

 

Gallo also stressed the importance of not turning children loose during designated trick-or-treat time.

“Chaperone them and make sure they cross the streets safely,” he said. “And motorists need to be aware that it’s Halloween and slow down.”

 

It is vital that motorists take their time, be free of distractions inside the vehicle and take extra time to look for children along the route, especially during designated trick-or-treat times.

 

Masks can hinder vision so wearing make-up instead is generally much safer. If opting to wear a mask, make sure the child can see clearly and has peripheral vision.

 

With all the bad publicity surrounding clowns, this might not be the best year to choose such a costume. Anyone who does should use particular caution as innocent motives could certainly be misinterpreted.

 

As always, it is advised to check all candy closely.

 

“That’s true particularly this year with all the heroin going around and the stamps with cartoon characters on them,” Gallo said. “If something doesn’t look right, discard it. Or if you have any questions, go to the local fire department or police department and have them inspect the candy.”

 

If concerned, it’s always best to just visit residences of those you know, Gallo said.

 

Residents can help make the trick-or-treat experience safer by keeping walkways and stairs well-lit and free of light cords and other obstacles. And, of course, to protect one’s own home, make sure lights and candles are clear of curtains and flammable decorations, Gallo said. Never leave candles or jack-o-lanterns illuminated with candles unattended or where small children or pets could get hurt.

 

Emergency Services Director Laura Pysz shared some additional guidelines as recommended by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

 

When choosing costumes for children, look for flame resistant ones that are brightly colored. Trick-or-treat bags, too, should be brightly colored or marked with reflective tape;

 

Consider using flameless candles for jack-o-lanterns and other decorations;

 

Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Always walk in groups or with a trusted adult;

 

Walk, don’t run, from house to house and always look both ways before crossing the street (look left, right then left again before crossing). Use established crosswalks when possible;

 

Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road facing traffic;

 

Put electronic devices down and keep head up and be aware of surroundings;

 

Avoid trips and falls by wearing footwear and clothing that fits properly;

 

Visit only well-lit houses and never accept rides from strangers.

 

Bridgeport will observe trick-or-treat 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31. See designated trick-or-treat times for nearby cities and counties HERE at WDTV.