Kids, Fire Officials Offer Up Halloween Safety Tips

NY1 News 12/23/2008

First, parents should inspect all candy gathered by their children.

Children should also avoid houses and streets that are not well lit and should travel in pairs.

"We definitely don't want children playing with candles or candles in jack o' lanterns," said FDNY Lieutenant Anthony Mancuso. "We recommend parents use a battery-operated candle. Parents using candles should supervise their children and should not leave the candle lit when they leave the house."

As far as costumes go, Mancuso says polyester is the safest way to go, but, since nothing is fireproof, children should stay away from open flames.  For more Halloween fire safety tips, go to nyc.gov/FDNY.