SOUTHLAND – (INT) – Spooks and goblins are becoming big business across the Inland Empire.

Halloween is the fastest-growing consumer holiday. The average person is spending more than $77, according to the National Retail Federation. That adds up to more than a billion dollars nationwide just for children’s costumes. Add another $350 million on costumes for pets.

On a safety note, Calfire advises:

· Purchase costumes made of flame resistant or flame retardant. Fire resistant does not mean fireproof!
· Apply reflective tape to Halloween costumes
· Masks can obstruct vision – consider using make-up instead
· Avoid loose, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts
· Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping

Decorations

· Keep decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters
· Light jack-‘o-lanterns with battery powered light – never use candles!
· Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes
· Remove objects from the yard that could present a tripping hazard (garden tools, hoses, etc.)

Story Date: November 1, 2014