Dark streets and open flames: Milwaukee fire chief issues Halloween safety warning

5:45 p.m. is when the sun sets on Halloween in Milwaukee, creating a narrow window between daylight and darkness that officials say is the most hazardous time of the evening. The City of Milwaukee will host its official trick-or-treat event from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 31. Because state law does not require drivers to turn on their headlights until 6:15 p.m., the first 30 minutes of the event will occur in near-total darkness. This timing creates specific risks for pedestrians who are not easily visible to motorists.

Carlos Velazquez-Sanchez, the fire education and community relations director for the Milwaukee Fire Department, advised families to treat the event as a high-visibility operation. He recommended that trick-or-treaters wear vests with reflectors, neon lights, or glowing accessories on the front or back of their costumes. He noted that many modern costumes are designed with fire safety in mind, but some are still made of flammable plastic. He urged parents to keep a close watch on children near front-yard fire pits and porch candles.

Drivers face their own set of challenges during the two-hour window. Velazquez-Sanchez pointed out that many drivers are distracted by devices or the environment. He told pedestrians to never assume a driver has seen them, even if the walk signal is active or they are inside a marked crosswalk. He suggested that walkers make direct eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street. This simple check ensures the motorist is aware of the pedestrian's presence.

The interaction between adults and children also requires caution. Velazquez-Sanchez warned against aggressive scare tactics that might cause children to bolt across the road. He said a little teasing is acceptable, but chasing kids to the point where they panic and cross without looking is dangerous. He encouraged adults in scary costumes to be mindful of their limits and the reactions of the children they encounter.

Indoor and porch safety remains a major concern for the fire department. Velazquez-Sanchez stated that unattended candles are a primary cause of holiday fires. He recommended that families purchase battery-powered candles, which are available at discount stores like Dollar Tree and Family Dollar. For those who prefer real flames, he insisted that candles must never be left unattended. He emphasized that this rule is critical for preventing property damage and injuries.

If a costume does catch fire, Velazquez-Sanchez provided a specific response protocol. He instructed individuals to stop moving immediately, cover their face, drop to the ground, and roll to smother the flames. He also encouraged nervous parents to step out of their homes despite the risks. He noted that Milwaukee residents generally look out for children who are not their own, but he reminded everyone to remain vigilant. Residents can call 911 if they need assistance during the event.