Halloween is all about fun and candy, but keeping children safe should be your highest priority.
Here are a few Halloween safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe night.
Costume
- Avoid costumes that are too long or may cause a tripping hazard
- Ensure that the mask or any other part of the costume that covers the face does not interfere with vision
- Ensure wigs, capes or other loose-hanging parts of costumes do not come in contact with open flames from pumpkins or candles
- Add reflective tape to the costume or have your child wear a glow stick necklace so they are visible in the dark. Both can be purchased at a dollar store
Trick or Treating
- Trick or treat in a familiar, well lit area.
- Children should always be accompanied by an adult
- Encourage children to trick or treat in a group
- Make sure kids are always paying attention to traffic when crossing the street. It is easy for them to get caught up in the excitement
- For older children, ensure parents are made aware of the route
- Remind children to never enter a house under any circumstance
- Stop only at house that have their lights on or a pumpkin lit up
Candy Inspection
- After trick or treating, parents should inspect all candy. Look for open wrappers, wrappers that look like they have been resealed or have holes in them.
- Anything homemade should be thrown in the garbage.
Home Owners
- You will have lots of traffic on your property and you are liable if anyone is injured.
- Inspect your walkway and front door area for tripping hazards.
- Ensure Halloween decorations are safely placed and out of the main walkway.
Driving
- Slow down!
- Anticipate. Kids can be unpredictable, even more so when they are excited and distracted.
- Do not text and drive. With so many children out and about, all your attention should be focused on the road.
Have a very Happy and Safe Halloween!