With Halloween being observed on Sunday and parties or other events sure to precede the day itself, attention is being given to preparing costumes and decorations. Somehow discussion of these preparations comes up fittingly as we close out national fire prevention month. Teton County Fire Marshal Kathy Clay says perhaps the most frightening thing for her on Halloween Night is candles.
“Those candles are an ignition source the kids with the long flowing costumes need to be aware of. And parents, when you place them, make sure that they are far away from the entry way. Not where kids costumes can get inside or somehow connected to this live flame. These outfits are not always made of material that’s made of material that’s going to resist fire. So it’s super import to keep those ignition sources from getting anywhere close to the costumes that the kids are wearing at night”
As far as illuminating pumpkins, Clay urges people to seek out the battery-operated lights made to go inside pumpkins rather than candles. She also encourages parents to incorporate something reflective in the construction of children’s costumes for Halloween night.
“Reflective gear is really helpful – our days are getting shorter, our nights are getting darker – so having that reflectivity will help people be able to see children when they are moving around from house to house and having a great time.”
At the same time, she suggests having the trick-or-treater carry a flashlight for added visibility.
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