2021 A message from the Asbury Park Fire Department:
Tips for a Safe and Fun Halloween
Research shows that children are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other night of the year. Fatal collisions between motor vehicles and young pedestrians occur most frequently between the hours of 4 and 8pm. In their excitement, kids often forget important pedestrian safety rules. The Asbury Park Fire Department offers some important tips for a safe Halloween:
- Plan a safe route: Accompany children, remind them to stop at all street corners, and to cross only at intersections and crosswalks. Stay in familiar neighborhoods and visit only those houses where the lights are on. Accept treats only in the doorway and NEVER go inside a house or apartment.
- Slow down: If you’re a motorist, please slow down and be prepared to give trick or treaters a brake. Many accidents occur when motorists are backing vehicles out of driveways, unaware of the presence of small children.
- Be a good neighbor: Keep porch lights on and make sure driveways and walks are well lit. Remove outdoor safety hazards such as toys, garden hoses and lawn ornaments. Keep driveways and steps cleared of leaves, which can be a slipping and falling hazard.
- Pets get frightened on Halloween: Confine your pets for their safety and for that of trick or treaters.
- Stay Visible: Consider adding reflective tape or decals to costumes and trick or treat bags. Be sure kids carry a flashlight and use glow sticks for extra visibility.
- Inspect Treats Before Eating: Have an adult inspect treats BEFORE eating anything. Do not eat any unwrapped, partially wrapped, or homemade-looking treats.
- Decorate Safely: Illuminate your jack-o’-lanterns with flashlights or battery-operated candles instead of real ones. If you do use candles, keep them well away from where trick or treaters will be walking or standing. Review with your children the principle of “stop, drop and roll” should their clothing catch fire.
Lastly, teach children how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
For more safety tips, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/halloween-safety-tips
For questions, call Asbury Park Bureau of Fire Prevention at 732-774-7400