Fun Halloween starts with safety

There will be plenty to see and do for Halloween festivities around the North Okanagan.

That includes fireworks in communities like Coldstream (Kal Beach) the BX (by the fire hall on Silver Star Road), and Armstrong (IPE fairgrounds).

There is also Treat Trails for young trick-or-treaters in downtown Vernon from 3 to 5 p.m., and at Village Green Centre, starting at 3:30 p.m.

And while fun is the goal, everyone is being asked to play it safe.

Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) is offering tips to kids and adults so safety stays top of mind.

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“The number one thing to remember is be visible,” said Deputy Chief Dwight Seymour. “Now that the sun is setting earlier, it’s important that kids’ costumes have some form of reflection on them so drivers see everyone crossing the road or walking from house to house.”

An easy way to stay visible is to carry a glow stick or flashlight and wear lighter coloured clothing.

When choosing a costume, it’s also important to think about ease of movement, tripping hazards and an ability to see what’s around you – that means it’s best to stay away from long trailing fabric and to wear face paint instead of a mask.

“The safety of our community is our number one priority,” said Seymour, “so we’ll have extra hands on deck Thursday night. Fire Stations #1 and #2 will be available as safe havens for children who may feel uncomfortable and need a place to go, thanks to the help of auxiliary and career firefighters.

Additional firefighters will be at the stations until 9 p.m. so someone is available in case other team members are responding to a call.”

Trick-or-treating isn’t the only time to think of safety, as there are also things to remember when it comes to decorating your home this season:

-Use a battery operated candle or glow stick in your Jack-o’-lantern instead of a fire-lit candle

-Teach children to stay away from open flames, including Jack-o’-lanterns that have fire-lit candles

-Ensure exits are clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes and ensure smoke alarms are working

-Keep decorations away from flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters. Items like dried flowers, cornstalks and straw bales catch fire easily.

VFRS will have fire trucks travelling around town Thursday night to help ensure everyone is having a safe and fun Halloween.