Party City Helps Keep Halloween Safe but Fun

Business Wire, Oct 24, 2005

ROCKAWAY, N.J. -- Child safety is a primary parental concern on Halloween, with the estimated number of potential trick-or-treaters at 36.8 million, according to U.S. Census figures in 2003. Creating an atmosphere of safety as well as fun can be a challenge for parents.

In recognition of the Halloween safety issue, Party City, America's largest party goods retail chain, is offering an assortment of affordable accessories that encourage safety along with creepy Halloween costumes, so no one has to miss out on the happy hauntings and gruesome galas on the spookiest night of the year.

"As a family-oriented retailer, Party City strives to anticipate and respond to the needs and concerns of our customers," said Lisa Laube, Party City's Chief Merchandising Officer. "With such a commitment in mind, we have made it a priority to stock a range of creative and exciting Halloween items that encourage safety."

Safety accessories include illuminated Jack-o-lanterns, frightening flashlights, glowing necklaces and glowsticks to blaze the way for trick-or-treaters. With a long night of trick-or-treating in the near future, Party City offers the following safety guidelines for parents.

Costume Tips

--Plan costumes that are brightly colored.

--For black or dark-colored costumes add reflective material or reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

--Make sure that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

--Masks should fit securely and allow your child to see well and not hinder visibility.

--Only use non-toxic, hypoallergenic makeup.

--Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.

Trick-or-Treat Tips

--Always keep Jack-o-lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, and flammable materials.

--When carving Jack-o-lanterns with children select a child-friendly carving kit.

--Securely attach emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within a child's Halloween attire or on a bracelet and show children how to call 9-1-1.

--A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children.

--Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries or glow sticks for all children and their escorts.

--Remain on well-lit streets, always use the sidewalk, and only trick-or-treat in well-known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.

--Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks, and low-flying brooms.

--Never eat unwrapped food items or opened beverages that are offered to you.

--Candy should not be eaten until it is thoroughly checked by an adult at home.

--Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.

--Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

About Party City

Party City Corporation is America's largest party goods chain. Party City currently operates 249 Company-owned stores and has 254 franchise stores in the United States and Puerto Rico. To learn more about Party City, call 1-800-477-4841 or visit the Company's website at http://www.partycity.com.