Halloween Safety Tips
Halloween is fun for kids, but the stats on kids’ safety on October 31 are downright scary. Here are some Halloween safety tips to keep in mind when your kids suit up and troll for treats. (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics)
Before Halloween:
- Purchase costumes, wigs and accessories that are bright, reflective and flame resistant. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping or entanglement.
- Add reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treating bags for greater visibility.
- Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discretely within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
- Use non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as a safe alternative to masks that may restrict eyesight.
- Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
- Teach children their home phone number and how to dial 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
When trick-or-treating:
- A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
- Plan and review with your children the route and behavior that is acceptable to you.
- Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.
- Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
- Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.
- Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
- Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
- Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks.
- Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
- Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean others will!
- Notify law enforcement authorities immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
Photo Credit: GraphicLeftovers.com
