Welsh Ambulance Service’s Spooktacular Safety Tips for a Safe Halloween Celebration

With Halloween just around the corner and half-term already underway, the Welsh Ambulance Service is urging residents to enjoy their spooky celebrations safely. In anticipation of one of the service’s busiest times, Sonia Thompson, Assistant Director of Operations (Emergency Medical Service), has issued an appeal to the public, reminding everyone to prioritize safety.

“Halloween can be a very busy time for the Welsh Ambulance Service,” said Thompson. “As we approach this exciting time of the year, it’s important to prioritize safety for ourselves and our loved ones. Please only call 999 for serious or life-threatening emergencies.”

Reflecting on last year’s figures, the Welsh Ambulance Service reported 4,682 calls to 999 during the Halloween period, alongside a significant 10,500 non-emergency calls to NHS 111 Wales. This year, the service aims to reduce these figures by encouraging safe practices and providing key safety tips for Halloween revelers of all ages.

“Remember, only call 999 for serious or life-threatening emergencies,” Thompson emphasized, “and don’t forget about the alternatives to 999, such as the NHS 111 Wales website, your GP, or nearest pharmacist. By following these simple steps, you can have a spooktacular but safe Halloween.”

Tips for a Safe Halloween

The Welsh Ambulance Service has provided several practical suggestions to help keep Halloween fun yet accident-free:

1. Be Seen, Be Safe: Visibility is key for pedestrians, particularly on dark autumn evenings. Costume-goers should opt for bright colors or add reflective tape to their outfits. Carrying a torch or using a phone’s light can also enhance safety when walking near roads.
2. Accompany Children: To keep younger trick-or-treaters safe, a responsible adult should accompany them, particularly in well-lit, familiar neighborhoods. Avoiding poorly lit or unfamiliar areas can help ensure their safety.
3. Drive with Caution: Halloween brings a spike in foot traffic, especially in residential areas. Motorists are advised to stay vigilant, adhere to speed limits, and watch out for children crossing streets in costume.
4. Opt for Safe Lighting: Instead of using traditional candles, opt for battery-operated LED lights in carved pumpkins and other decorations to reduce fire hazards.
5. Choose Make-Up Over Masks: Masks can limit visibility and breathing. Non-toxic make-up or face paint allows for better visibility and more comfortable breathing while preserving the costume’s essence. Thompson also reminded revelers, “Be mindful not to frighten vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly.”
6. Drink Responsibly: For adult celebrants, it’s essential to drink in moderation and have a designated driver if consuming alcohol. Offering non-alcoholic options at gatherings can ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable evening.

Meanwhile, the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) also echoed similar sentiments, providing its own five-step guidance for Halloween safety across the region. Chris Turner, Area Head of Ambulance Operations at SWASFT, noted the importance of choosing appropriate care options.

“Halloween is an exciting time of the year, and we want everyone to have a fun time but to look after themselves and each other,” said Turner. “To ensure we can be there for everyone that needs us in a medical emergency, we are asking people to help us to help you by following our five steps to a safe Halloween. Please choose the right care for you, so we have crews available for patients with the most life-threatening conditions.”

For all residents, in a life-threatening emergency, the advice remains to dial 999 and request immediate assistance. For non-life-threatening issues, alternatives include visiting NHS 111 online, contacting a GP, or seeking advice from a pharmacist.

With safety at the forefront, both services hope for a Halloween that is memorable, safe, and—above all—spooktacular.