Top tips for a spooky, sparkly, safe Autumn half term
As families across the South West get ready to enjoy the October half term, the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) is reminding everyone to stay safe, look after one another, and use the right NHS service if you need medical help.
Halloween and Bonfire Night are great opportunities to celebrate with friends and family, but they can also lead to accidents if care isn't taken. A few small safety steps can make a big difference - helping everyone enjoy the festivities safely and ensuring our ambulance teams are free to respond to the most serious emergencies.
If you or someone else needs medical help:
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In a life-threatening emergency, always call 999.
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For non-life-threatening concerns, visit NHS 111 Online for advice on the most appropriate care, contact your GP, or speak to your local pharmacist.
You can also help others by checking in on vulnerable neighbours, dressing appropriately for the weather, and keeping well stocked at home with any regular medicines.
Celebrate safely
Whether you're out trick-or-treating, attending a fireworks display, or gathering around a bonfire, please take extra care to avoid accidents and injuries.
Read our seasonal safety tips below:
Five ways to ensure a safe, but spooktacular Halloween:
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Ensure that you can be seen in the dark. Wear something reflective and carry a torch so you can be seen by drivers at night.
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Use LED lights instead of candles as a safer alternative around the home and in pumpkins.
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Stay away from naked flames, especially when wearing Halloween costumes as they are often made of flammable materials.
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Ensure young children are accompanied by an adult whilst trick-or-treating, never let them go out alone.
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Be aware of choking hazards from sweets and chocolates.
Five simple ways to enjoy a fun but safe Bonfire Night:
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When you're watching a firework display, stand well back from any firework that has been lit, even if it has not gone off, as it could still explode.
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Don't consume alcohol if you're planning on setting off fireworks.
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Adults and children should always wear gloves when holding sparklers. Keep a bucket of sand or water handy to put used sparklers in. Make sure sparklers are kept away from faces, clothes, or other people.
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Stand at a safe distance from a bonfire - at least five metres away - and avoid wearing loose fitting clothing around naked flames.
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Don't burn aerosols, batteries, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint on bonfires - many produce toxic fumes, and some containers may explode, causing injury.