The Office of the Fire Commissioner of BC is reminding all of us to stay safe this Halloween, with the following tips.

Candles

• Use flashlights and battery-operated candles instead of decorating with candles.
• Keep candles away from anything that can burn such as decorations, doorsteps, costumes and curtains.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Use long matches to light candles inside jack-o-lanterns.
• For more tips on candle safety, please visit: http://www.embc.gov.bc.ca/ofc/public-ed/pdf/candlehallo14.pdf

Costumes

• Choose Halloween costumes, wigs and accessories that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant. Avoid costumes with long trailing pieces that may easily ignite. When constructing a costume for children, always keep fire safety in mind.
• Educate children to stay clear of open flames and other heat sources. Ensure that children know how to perform STOP, DROP and ROLL should their clothes catch on fire. (If your clothes catch on fire: STOP immediately, DROP to the ground and cover your face with your hands, ROLL over and over to extinguish the flames).

Decorations

• Ensure that combustible Halloween decorations such as crepe paper, cornstalks and dried flowers are kept well away from sources of heat. Keep all exits clear of decorating materials.
• Decorative candles, candle holders, lights and other decorations should be certified by a recognized organization such as the Canadian Standards Association or the Underwriters’ of Laboratory of Canada.

Halloween Activities

• Celebrate Halloween wisely. Teach children that fireworks are not toys and that if they find fireworks, they should TELL an adult. It is unsafe for children to pick up fireworks and bring them to an adult.
• The use of fireworks by untrained individuals may result in unnecessary injuries. Safely enjoy fireworks displays put on by trained individuals.*
• Instruct children attending parties at others’ homes to locate exits and plan how they would get out in an emergency.
• To learn more about BC Fire Facts associated with Halloween, please see: http://www.embc.gov.bc.ca/ofc/public-ed/pdf/hallowfs14.pdf
• To view this fact sheet in PDF format, visit http://www.embc.gov.bc.ca/ofc/public-ed/pdf/hallowis14.pdf 

*Are Fireworks Allowed in the City of Courtenay?

Generally, no, but organizations and public events may apply in advance for a fireworks permit. Read the City’s Fire Protective Services Bylaw [PDF - 189 KB] for more information and contact the Courtenay Fire Department at 250-334-2513 or email fire@courtenay.ca .