The Evanston Fire Department along with the United States Fire Administration are offering community members tips to stay safe this Halloween. The latest data shows that there are approximately 10,300 fires each year during the three-day period around Halloween, causing 25 deaths, 125 injuries and $83 million in property loss.

Safety Considerations:

  • Choose a costume without long trailing fabric. This can cause a child to trip or may touch flames in jack-o’-lanterns or other decorations.
  • If you make your own costume, use materials that won’t catch on fire easily if they come in contact with heat or flame.
  • Give your children flashlights or glow sticks so they can see where they are walking.
  • Keep decorations away from candles, light bulbs and heaters.
  • Consider using flameless candles or glow sticks in your jack-o’-lantern.
  • Keep exits clear of decorations.

For more information about Halloween fire safety, visit the U.S. Fire Administration’s website at www.usfa.fema.gov. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued additional health and safety tips for the season. View them at www.cityofevanston.org/Halloween.

Have a safe and enjoyable Halloween.