Dix Hills, NY - October 21st, 2013 - As the end of October draws near, excitement for Halloween builds within the community. Dressing up, trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving are popular, enjoyable ways to celebrate the holiday. The Dix Hills Fire Department urges parents to be aware of safety precautions to help their children avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Nearly four out of every five parents’ express at least one Halloween-related fear or concern, including being hit by a car, poisoning from tampered or spoiled treats, abductions, burns and broken bones. With the appropriate safety measures in place, Halloween can remain a fun and safe holiday.

The Dix Hills Fire Department offers the following safety tricks so Halloween remains a treat:

• Swords, knives and similar costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible
• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups, preferably with a trusted adult
• Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you
• Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see others and others see you
• Always walk and do not run from house to house
• Look both was before crossing the street and use crosswalks when possible
• Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls
• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them
• Eat only factory-wrapped treats and avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers
• Enter homes only if you are with a trusted adult
• Only visit well-lit houses and do not stop at dark ones
• Never accept rides from strangers
• Never walk near lit candles and be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes

Happy Halloween!

In the event of a fire or medical emergency, dial 911. For non-emergencies and fire department inquiries, call 631-499-8836

About Dix Hills FD
It is our mission to provide the citizens of Dix Hills, and all those who pass through it, the best service and protection available.  The department’s approximately 175 volunteer members accomplish these goals through dedicated response and constant training.  Our membership consists of approx. 90 Firefighters, 75 basic and advanced EMT’s, and a dozen Fire Police.  We operate out of three fire stations and respond to more than 800 fire and 1,600 medical emergencies each year. Visit us at www.dixhillsfd.org.