Have a spooktacular and safe Halloween

Thousands of ghosts and goblins, and possibly even a few
superheroes, will soon invade our community for a night of tricks and treats
during Halloween festivities. The Ottawa Paramedic Service and Ottawa Fire
Services encourage all residents to review household and outdoor safety
measures to ensure their family is safe.

"It's time to set your clocks back an hour this weekend," mentions Fire
Chief Rick Larabie. "Take the time to change the batteries in your smoke
alarm and in your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors as well." 

Ottawa Fire Services remind everyone to be careful of possible fire dangers.
Keep a watchful eye on candles, whether they are used inside or outside your
home. Make sure your candles are kept away from combustibles and placed in
non-combustible, sturdy candleholders. Parents should also reinforce the
principle of "Stop, Drop and Roll" with their children if they get fire on
their clothing. Develop and practice a fire escape plan that includes two
ways out of every room as well as an outside meeting place.

Parents are encouraged to put flashlights and batteries on their list when
shopping for Halloween treats. Trick-or-treaters and their escorts should
carry a flashlight with fresh batteries when going door to door.
Furthermore, the Ottawa Paramedic Service reminds parents and caregivers to
inspect all treats for any sign of tampering. Treats that are not
sealed-wrapped or items that seem suspicious should be discarded
immediately.

Make sure that costumes have reflective stripes and are not a tripping
hazard. If costumes include a mask, make sure it does not hinder good
visibility. It is also important to ensure costumes are flame resistant and
keep your children warm. 

"It's starting to drop below freezing at night," notes Ottawa Paramedic
Service Chief Anthony Di Monte. "To ensure your children's costumes are
keeping them warm, monitor their temperature every 20 minutes."

Halloween is also a good time to remind your children that they can dial
9-1-1 free from any pay phone and help will be on the way. The City of
Ottawa, including firefighters and paramedics, believes that providing a
safe environment for children is an important part of Halloween fun. 

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For more information:
Media contact
(613) 580-2450

Public inquiries
(613) 580-2400

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