JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Whether you’re trick-or-treating, hosting a party, or decorating your home, the state fire marshal and Triple A offer ways to stay safe this Halloween.
State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis says there are lots of safe options, instead of using candles, so your holiday isn’t ruined by fire..
“You can follow these tips to make sure this Halloween is a safe one,” Patronis says . “I encourage everyone to use alternative to open flames. You can use battery-operated candles, glow sticks inside your jack-o-lanterns and still get the same effect.”
Recently, the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department recently responded to two fires in the Brentwood area that were suspected to be caused by candles.
The first fire happened on October 19th and then again on the 29th, but luckily no one was hurt in either fire.
Halloween is one of the deadliest holidays for pedestrians, according to Triple A, with children being twice as likely to get hit by a car and killed.
So they are reminding you of how to stay safe as you head out trick-or-treating tonight.
For trick-or-treaters:
They say use the sidewalk, wear bright colored clothing or reflective material, and avoid masks that hinder your view.
Cross the street using traffic signals and crosswalks, and look both ways before crossing.
For drivers:
Slow down through neighborhoods, avoid distractions like using cell phones, and of course drive sober.
Triple-A recommends driving five miles an hour slower than the posted speed limit to give yourself extra time to react to children who may dart out in front of you.
For parents:
Walk with your children and have them carry a d flashlight or glow stick.
And If you’re throwing a party, Triple A says provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options, collect car keys from guests who are drinking, and use a rideshare service or have a designated driver if you have been drinking.
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