FRANKLIN COUNTY-Franklin County Sheriff Shannon Oliver has an OpEd on Halloween Safety:
The Halloween Holiday is coming up soon! We remind you to prioritize safety this Halloween when carving pumpkins, decorating, dressing up in costumes, and trick-or-treating.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has several safety tips to help children remain safe while still experiencing the fun and excitement that comes with Halloween.
- Leave pumpkin carving to the adults. Child helpers can grab a spoon and scoop out the inside or use a marker to trace the design.
- Battery-operated lights or glow sticks are recommended for decorations and are the safest option.
- Use a ladder when hanging or removing decorations, and only use lights tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory.
- Wear a costume that fits and avoid overly long or baggy costumes to prevent trips and falls.
For more information on having a safe and fun Halloween, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Halloween can be a safe and enjoyable evening for all with some preparation, communication, and diligence. Of course, we will be on patrol and available to you and your children if you need us. As always, dial 911 in case of an emergency.
We appreciate your cooperation,
Sheriff Shannon Oliver