Ozark Fire Protection District Offers Halloween Safety Guidance
Fire officials from the Ozark Fire Protection District are issuing Halloween safety advice for residents in the Springfield, MO area, focusing on costume flammability, ensuring children are visible to drivers, and the proper use of decorative contact lenses.
Springfield, MO, October 12, 2026 — The Ozark Fire Protection District is providing essential Halloween safety tips to residents in the Springfield, Missouri area as the holiday approaches. The guidance aims to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for families, with a particular focus on preventing accidents related to costumes, visibility, and cosmetic contact lenses.
Fire officials are emphasizing the importance of costume flammability. They advise parents and guardians to choose flame-resistant materials for costumes whenever possible. If costumes are not made of flame-resistant fabric, it is recommended to keep them away from open flames, including jack-o’-lanterns, candles, and heat sources. Costumes should also be well-fitted to avoid tripping hazards, particularly for younger children.
Visibility is another key area of concern highlighted by the district. With trick-or-treating often taking place after dark, ensuring children are visible to drivers is paramount. The Ozark Fire Protection District suggests using reflective tape or stickers on costumes and treat bags. Carrying flashlights or glow sticks can also significantly improve a child’s visibility to motorists, helping to prevent potential accidents on neighborhood streets.
Furthermore, the advisory addresses the use of decorative contact lenses, which are commonly sold around Halloween. While they can enhance a costume, fire officials caution that improper use or unsanitary handling can lead to serious eye infections or injuries. They strongly recommend consulting with an eye doctor before using any decorative contact lenses, even if they are purchased over-the-counter. Proper cleaning, disinfection, and storage, as advised by an eye care professional, are critical steps to protect eye health.
The Ozark Fire Protection District encourages all residents to take these safety recommendations seriously to ensure a safe Halloween celebration within the Springfield, MO community.
Story summarized from the original created by Phil Rodriguez on www.ky3.com, see more information here.
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