Hallowe'en – important safety tips

What is the history behind Hallowe'en?
Halloween or Hallowe'en (a contraction of All Hallows' Evening) is a spooky celebration observed every year in a number of countries on October 31 – the eve of the Western Christian feast of All Hallows' Day.

The origin of the festival is disputed, and there are both pagan and Christian practices that have evolved into what Hallowe'en is like today.

Some believe it originates from the Celtic pagan festival of Samhain, meaning 'Summer's End' which celebrated the end of harvest season.

The origins of trick or treating and dressing up were in the 16th century in Ireland, Scotland and Wales where people went door-to-door in costume asking for food in exchange for a poem or song. Many dressed up as souls of the dead and were understood to be protecting themselves from the spirits by impersonating them.

The Christian origin of the holiday is that it falls on the days before the feast of All Hallows, which was set in the eighth century to attempt to stamp out pagan celebrations. Christians would honour saints and pray for souls who have not yet reached heaven.

Hallowe'en – YES or NO trick or treaters poster
While many people are happy to join in, there are some people who would prefer not to.

Please respect people's wishes, if they do not have outside lighting illuminated, it is fair to assume that they do not wish to be disturbed. They may have posters up requesting that you do not call (see link below).

Cheshire firefighters don't want to spoil the treats to be had on Hallowe'en but they want to warn people of the potential dangers that can be faced from fire.

Hallowe'en – fire safety tips
-Plastic capes and bin liners are often used as costumes – keep them away from candles or other naked flames
-Use battery operated lights within homemade lanterns and pumpkins. Battery operated lights are much safer than candles.
-Take extra care with candles – they are extremely hazardous. If the candle tips over it could set light to materials such as costumes, curtains, clothes and furniture and start a serious fire.

If clothing catches fire – stop, drop and roll
-In the event that clothing does catch fire – remember to STOP, DROP and ROLL:
-Stop where you are. Do not run. Running can make things worse.
-Drop to the ground. Lay flat with your legs out straight.
-Cover your eyes and mouth with your hands.
-Roll over and over and back and forth until the flames are out.
-Get help straight away.

CLICK HERE to share a safety video with Children – it explains how to STOP, DROP and ROLL. There are also links to posters which can be printed out.

Have a fun and safe night!