Halloween Safety Tips
This Friday is Halloween and while it is a fun time there are some precautions that you probably want to think about. Most people are friendly and nice but there are some who play cruel tricks on children and ruin the good time. You can help make the evening of Halloween a safer event for everyone. Even those who do not take part in the event can help by watching out for trick-or-treaters. Parents of children should bear in mind that “fake” weapons such as guns, knives and swords should be of materials that are soft and flexible to prevent injuries. Props for children that actually look like a real weapon should be avoided completely.
Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters:
Be part of a group and don’t stray from the group
Don’t enter the home of a stranger
Never accept rides from strangers
Carry flash lights so you can be easily seen
Don’t take shortcuts through backyards, parks or alleys
Be alert, have fun but don’t let your guard down
Look before you cross a road
Safety Tips for the House
Keep a porch light on so trick-or-treaters will know to visit and can see where they are walking.
Remove yard clutter that trick-or-treaters may trip over.
Secure your pets to protect both the visitors and your pets.
Use battery powered jack-o’-lanterns instead of ones with candles.
Avoid giving homemade treats. Responsible parents do not allow their children to eat them unless they know the person making them.
Safety Tips for Parents
Young children should be accompanied by an adult.
Check your child’s candy before they consume it. Anything suspicious should be discarded!
Feed your children before they set out. This should help discourage them from trying their treats before you can check them.
Know where your child is and whom they are with.
Buy flame retardant costumes and consider using make-up rather than masks. A mask may obscure your child’s vision.
Costumes should be light in color or have reflective tape put on them.
Drivers please remember to slow down in neighborhoods. Children may not remember to look both ways before crossing the roads.
