For immediate release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-533-9398
Email: john@jgpr.net

*Joint Release* Andover and North Andover Health Divisions Offer Halloween Safety Tips

ANDOVER and NORTH ANDOVER — The Andover and North Andover Health Divisions are offering residents Halloween safety tips and best practices as they prepare to take their children trick-or-treating.

Halloween, which is celebrated on Oct. 31, falls on a Monday this year. Designated trick-or-treat hours are as follows:

• Andover – Monday, Oct. 31 from 5-7 p.m.
• North Andover – Monday, Oct. 31 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

“The health and safety of our residents is our primary concern,” said Andover Health Director Thomas Carbone. “It is vital that parents and guardians accompany their children while trick-or-treating and monitor the candy they are collecting and consuming.”

In addition, both health departments urge drivers to slow down and keep watch for the high volume of pedestrians expected on neighborhood roads.

“We want all of our residents to be able to safely enjoy their Halloween festivities this year and every year,” said North Andover Health Director Brian LaGrasse. “Parents, guardians and children who plan on trick-or-treating and celebrating the holiday are encouraged to follow the tips provided to ensure safety for all.”

The Andover and North Andover Public Health Departments recommend that residents follow safety tips outlined by the Centers for Disease Control, which ask that people follow the “Safe Halloween” motto:

• Swords and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.
• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
• Fasten reflective tape on costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before you eat them.
• Hold a flashlight while walking to ensure that you are visible. Walk and don’t run from house to house.
• Always test make up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
• Lower your risk of serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
• Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
• Only walk on sidewalks wherever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and to prevent accidents or injury.
• Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.
• Eat only factory-wrapped candy. Avoid eating homemade treats offered by strangers.
• Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.
• Never walk near lit candles or devices with open flames. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

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