From the desk of Senator David Pearce

Things That Go Bump In the Night

As we head further into the fall, there are a number of activities going on in the surrounding community to keep in mind. Previously, we have discussed safety tips for hunting, which is one of the biggest activities this time of year for citizens of all ages. But another event lurking around the corner with its candy bag open and waiting for treats is Halloween. As we prepare our children and ourselves for this fun-filled tradition, let’s try to make sure we make this a safe holiday for all our little costumed goblins.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention provides a wealth of information, including safety tips for Halloween. They have devised a handy mnemonic device to help remember the most important rules for this time of year. According to the organization’s safety experts, we should all have a SAFE HALLOWEEN:

S – Swords, knives or similar accessories should be short and soft.

A – Avoid going out alone.

F – Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags.

E – Examine all treats before enjoying them.

H – Hold a flashlight in order to see and be seen.

A – Always test costume makeup for allergies.

L – Look both ways before crossing the street.

L – Lower chances of eye injury by NOT wearing decorative contacts.

O – Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road.

W – Wear well-fitting masks and costumes to avoid potential hazards.

E – Eat only treats that are wrapped.

E – Enter a home only if you are accompanied by a trusted adult.

N – Never walk near open flames of jack-o-lanterns or luminaries.

By following common-sense rules such as these, children and adults that choose to wear costumes can take ownership of their own safety.

For those who choose to stay out of costume, or who decide to host a safe environment for Halloween participants of any age, remember to keep open flames away from walking paths. Instead, keep them up on sturdy outdoor tables. Also, consider offering healthier alternatives to traditional candy for trick or treaters, such as raisins or pretzels. Always have your front porch light on if you are receiving trick or treaters at your home. Finally, if you are in a car on Halloween evening, please remember to watch for all the costumed ghosts and ghouls, as they are very excited about the evening’s activities and may not, despite repeated reminders, be as observant as they need to be.

Please keep these safety suggestions in mind, not only as you are out costume shopping for the upcoming holiday, but also as you are preparing your homes. For more about Halloween safety, please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at www.cdc.gov and search the term Halloween on their home page.

As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 866-277-0882 (toll-free) or 573-751-2272, or by fax at 573-526-7381.

Senator David Pearce serves Bates, Cass, Johnson and Vernon counties in the 31st State Senatorial District.