Kern County Fire Department Issues Halloween Warnings

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- It seems like there are some usual Halloween rules. The usual, "carry a flashlight" and "don't eat too much candy" are the mundane rules of trick-or-treaters. This year, the Kern County Fire Department wants to add another to the list: "stick with non-flammable costumes."

In a demonstration Monday, ABC 23 Central Bakersfield reporter Karl Mandik got a first-hand look at the differences between store-bought costumes and those made at home. Store-bought costumes usually made with synthetic material and come complete with flame-resistant material that will not catch fire as fast.

If you're planning on making your homemade ghost this year, parents need to be aware this is not the safest costume.

"Cotton material is very highly flammable. It can catch and spread on a body with rapid speed," says Kern County Fire Department public information officer Sean Collins. Collins went on to talk about the importance of staying away from an open flame on Halloween night.

"Kids carry jack-o-lanterns and candles to light their path; those open flames can become a danger."

Here are some ways to make sure you and your kids have a safe Halloween:

Know the route your children will be taking if you aren't going with them.

Make sure you set a time for them to be home

Have your children eat a good dinner before going out.

Make sure your children are properly supervised while out.

Make sure they trick or treat in a group if you are not with them.

Children 12 years and younger should be accompanied by an adult.

Tell your children to never go into a stranger's house.

Tell your children to stay out of the street while walking.

Choose a costume that is brightly colored and easy to see in the dark.

Carefully inspect all food and candy before letting your child eat it (when in doubt, throw it out).

Trick or Treater's:

Carry a flashlight.

Stay on sidewalks.

Cross the street at intersections, never run out from behind a parked car.

Stay in familiar neighborhoods.

Make sure your costume fits you well.

Only approach houses that are well lit, and never go into a strangers house.

Walk from house to house, don't run.

Never take shortcuts, such as alleyways or empty fields.

Don't eat anything until your parents have had a chance to inspect it.

Children should also know the basics, such as their phone number and address in case of an emergency, and how to react if a stranger tries to approach them. If your child is late returning home or you cannot locate your child, immediately call 911 and report it to local law enforcement.

If you would like further information about Halloween safety or other crime prevention topics, please contact the Kern County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit at 661-391-7559.