THE Surrey Fire Service is encouraging everyone to have a fun and safe Halloween by following some simple safety precautions.

• Fireworks: Fireworks are hazardous to those who are lighting them and to the surrounding area based on the fallout of the burning materials.  In The City of Surrey, fireworks are not allowed to be sold or discharged without a valid Fire Department permit and a Federal Fireworks Supervisor Certificate.

• COVID-19: Don’t trick-or-treat, hand out treats, or go to a party if you are feeling ill (even if symptoms are mild).  If you can, knock instead of pushing doorbells and carry hand sanitizer for use after touching things like doorbells or railings.

• Dangerous Décor: Jack-o-lanterns maybe a time-honored tradition, but they also represent a fire hazard. Instead of using a candle inside of the Jack-o-lantern, use a small flashlight or battery powered candle.

• Don’t Blow It: Check indoor and outdoor decorative lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Do not overload extension cords.

• Costume Considerations: When selecting this year’s Halloween costume, pick brightly coloured costumes that can be clearly seen by motorists and do not choose costumes with long flowing skirts, capes, or baggy sleeves as they can be hazardous around ignition sources.

• Light the way: Make sure everyone in the Halloween trick-or-treating party has a flashlight. This will help make you more visible to motorists and others. When in doubt, stay in well-lit areas and only visit homes with their lights turned on.