Help the children have a safe and fun filled Halloween....
Although Halloween is intended to be fun for kids of all ages, without some special consideration and preparation, Halloween can also be a real scare. The law enforcement agencies of Harford County would like to help you keep your little ghosts and goblins safe. Below are a few safety tips to follow this Halloween season:
DRIVING SAFETY...
Motorists traveling on Halloween night should remember that children are everywhere: streets, sidewalks, crosswalks and parking lots. You will need to be on the highest alert while driving. Many of the costumes children wear are dark and difficult to see, be sure to have your headlights on. Slow down if you see leaves on the ground, you never know where children may be hiding. Be alert at all times and please drive with caution.
ADVICE TO PARENTS...
1. Children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult.
2. Know the route your children will be taking if you are not going with them.
3. Set a curfew for children who are not being supervised by an adult.
4. Explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism.
5. Safety is in numbers, older children should stay together in groups.
6. Assure your child is not tempted to eat their "unchecked" treats. Provide them with a good meal before they go out and give them some treats from home to place in their pockets.
7. Be careful about homemade treats or damaged wrappers.
COSTUME SAFETY...
1. Costumes should be of bright material, visible in the dark or have reflective tape.
2. Consider using face paint, masks can hinder a child's visibility.
3. If they do wear a mask, make sure it fits securely to allow good visibility.
4. Wear a well fitted costume. Loose costumes may cause the child to trip and fall.
5. Tape child's name, address and telephone number to inside of costume.
6. Do not allow sharp instruments to be used in costuming.
7. TRICK-OR-TREATING SAFETY...
8. Carry a flash light.
9. Walk on a sidewalk. If a sidewalk is not available, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
10. Avoid taking shortcuts across backyards or alleys.
11. Stop at curbs.
12. Look left, right and left again before crossing a street at a crosswalk or corner.
13. Walk on well light streets.
14. Obey all traffic signals and rules of the road.
15. Trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods.
16. Carry emergency change to make a telephone call if needed.
17. Approach only homes that have their front porch light on.
18. Accept treats only at the front door. Never enter the home of a stranger.
19. Never eat treats before getting home. Allow your parents to inspect all candy first.
SECURE YOUR HOME...
1. Prepare for trick-or-treaters by lighting the house well.
2. Restrain dogs and other animals.
3. Remove obstacles from the front yard.
4. Give individually wrapped candy or treats.
October is also Fire Safety and Auto Care Month
Here are some items to check during the month
Fire
1. Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.
2. Test detectors monthly.
3. Replace detectors that are 10 or more years old.
4. Discuss with your family fire safety, your emergency escape and meeting place plan.
5. You might even try a drill.
6. Have your home heating system tested for proper operation and CO2 (carbon monoxide) at safe levels.
7. Replace or clean (if cleanable) forced air furnace air filters.
8. Visually check fire extinguisher pressure. Replace unit if pressure is low.
Auto safety checks- Knauz will gladly provide you with our complimentary multi-point vehicle inspection or you may follow the following list to inspect your vehicle.
Ready your vehicle for winter
1. Check all fluids, oil, coolant and windshield washer, replace as required.
2. Have your vehicle professionally detailed to ensure you have a good coat of wax before being exposed to the winter elements.
3. Check tire pressure when tires are cold, Inflate tires to the recommended pressure.
4. Properly inflated tires will increase traction, fuel mileage, and will wear longer.
5. Replace windshield wiper blades.
6. Maintain gas tank at least half full to prevent gas lines from freezing
7. Purchase a good window scraper/brush.
8. Replace tires, belts and hoses as needed.
9. Get an engine tune up.
10. Check battery and clean terminals.
11. Pack an emergency safety kit for the trunk.
· Blanket
· Extra clothing, gloves, hat
· Jumper cables
· Snack food
· Small shovel
· Flashlight with new batteries
· Kitty litter or ice bite for emergency traction
Prepare yourself for winter driving
1. Start out a little earlier for your trip.
2. Slow down.
3. Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front.
4. Stay calm, watch for ice and slippery conditions.
