Halloween and Dia de los Muertos are lurking just around the corner! The City of Ontario wants to share some great safety tips to help ensure a safe Halloween. And remember, The City of Ontario hosts an annual Halloween costume parade and contest here at City Hall on October 31! Learn more here!
Don’t let tragedy ruin the fun for your children this month. The Fire and Police Departments would like to offer these safety tips:
- Never leave children unattended;
- Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame;
- When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant;
- Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts;
- Review with your children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll,” should their clothes catch on fire;
- Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house;
- Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors;
- Always keep Jack O' Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking;
- Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items;
- Drive carefully and be alert when driving in areas where children are trick-or-treating.
Starting Thursday, October 3rd through November 19th you can visit the History of Dia de los Muertos: Eternal Roots exhibit. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) emphasizes the remembrance of past lives and a celebration of the continuity of life. We wish everyone a happy and safe Halloween.