Everyone wants to have a safe and happy Halloween. The Gallup Fire Department wants remind people that there are many ways to keep your child safe on Halloween and offers the following Halloween safety tips:

Costumes

• Purchase costumes made of flame retardant material (Check the label).

• Costumes that are bright are easier to see at night.

• Use make-up rather than masks. If a child does wear a mask, make sure it does not restrict vision or breathing.

• For younger children especially, put a name tag with phone number and address in their costume in case they are found separated from others.

• Give your children glow sticks, glow rings or flashlights. You can also put reflective tape on their costumes to make them more visible to drivers.

Trick-or-treating

• It’s best, especially for younger children, to trick-or-treat before its dark outside.

• Have children stay in groups.

• Keep your children within your eyesight.

• For older trick-or-treaters: if they are out without parental supervision, know where they are going, keep in touch throughout the night and agree on a time for them to return home.

• Inspect candy before children eat it; if it's not wrapped, throw it away. If in doubt, throw it out.

Home decorations

• Spray decorations with flame retardants if possible.

• Do not use open flames; use battery-operated candles for jack-o-lanterns or other decorations.

• If using dry ice, keep out of reach of children.

• Remember, if you are driving on Halloween, take care and slow down….watch out for trick-or-treaters who will be too busy to watch out for you.

The Gallup Fire Department hopes that these safety tips will help you have a fun and safe Halloween this year.