Toronto paramedics promote Halloween safety

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  October 29, 2014

Toronto paramedics promote Halloween safety

The City of Toronto's Paramedic Services reminds everyone to stay safe and have fun this Halloween. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to review the following safety tips before children go out trick-or-treating in the neighbourhood on Friday, October 31.

Avoid trips and falls:

- Check costume size to ensure a snug fit for your child. The costume should be no longer than ankle length.

- Consider using facial makeup instead of a mask. Masks can restrict vision and make it difficult for a child to see trip hazards and traffic.

- Turn on your home's porch light and clear walkways of clutter.

Be visible:

- Carry a flashlight so it is readily available to use as needed.

- Attach strips of reflective tape to your child's costume.

- Provide clothing/costumes of varied colours rather than all dark colours.

Plan ahead to keep children warm and dry:

- Send your child out in layers. An extra layer under a costume will make a difference to a child who is outdoors for an extended period on a chilly evening.

- Keep a hat and pair of mitts/gloves in the bottom of your child's treat bag just in case.

Follow basic safety rules:

- Supervise small children when crossing a road.

- Remind children to always stop and look both ways before crossing a road.

- Emphasize the importance of waiting for cars to come to a complete stop before walking across the street at a crosswalk or a traffic light.

- Plan a meeting spot in advance in case friends or family members who are out together become separated.

Other tips:

- Supervise your pets closely, as they may get overexcited with many visitors coming to the door.

- Dispose of candy that may be a choking hazard for small children or may cause an allergic reaction in a family member, or that is unwrapped.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1vgzsHc

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Kim McKinnon, Toronto Paramedic Services, 416-392-2255, kmckinn2@toronto.ca