Halloween is rapidly approaching, and as you sort out the final details of candy collection and Halloween costumes, don’t forget about safety. The annual Trick-or-Treat expedition should be fun and memorable, and it can be by following these simple practices. Remember: fake blood is good, real blood is bad!
✓Maximize visibility by carrying a flashlight or glow stick, or clip on a flashing bicycle light or attach reflective tape to your kids Halloween costume.
✓Dress for the weather to stay warm and dry during your trek.
✓Avoid costume tripping hazards. Wear good, sturdy shoes, costumes with no dangling fabric, and properly fitting masks with eye holes that are big enough to see from.
✓No sharp objects: make sure your child’s props are made of flexible material, in case they fall on them or accidentally poke someone.
✓Make sure your costumes are made of fire resistant material or spray them with a fire retardant product.
✓Carry your own flashlight and wear reflective clothing so your kids can easily spot you if accidentally separated.
✓Warn your kids not to enter a stranger’s house without being accompanied by a familiar adult.
✓Eat only factory wrapped treats that have been inspected by you for tampering. Avoid homemade treats from people you don’t know. Make a rule that candy is only eaten once you return home.
✓Small kids should be accompanied by a responsible adult. Tag team with other parents if necessary.
✓If older kids go without you, set a predetermined route so that you know where they will be, and have them carry a cell phone.
✓Stay on sidewalks whenever possible. Avoid back alleys and do not walk through yards.
✓Take extra precaution when crossing streets. Look both ways several times, and only cross at corners or crosswalks. Younger kids should hold someone’s hand.
✓Stay together as a group and communicate with each other.
On a side note: feed your kids a filling meal prior to trick-or-treating so that they have less room for candy. This will make your life easier upon returning home.
Let your children have choices about what Halloween costume to wear or which direction they want to walk, but ultimately it is the parent’s duty to make sure the night unfolds safely. Think ahead, use common sense, and set some ground rules. Most importantly, remember to have fun. BOO!
