Full Text
Halloween Safety Tips Children Should: - Not trick or treat without parents. - Cross streets only at corners. - Never cross the street between parked cars. - Carry a flashlight or glow stick and/or wear reflective tape. - Be aware of motor vehicles that may be turning into or backing out of driveways. - Never go into a stranger’s house. Parents Should: - Walk with their children or make sure children are accompanied by a trusted adult. - Make sure trick-or-treaters will be safe when visiting your home. Remove lawn decorations and sprinklers, toys and bicycles or anything that might obstruct your walkway. Provide a well lit outside entrance to your home. Keep family pets away from trick-or-treaters. - Explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism. - Instruct children NOT to eat treats until they return home and parents have had a chance to inspect those treats. - Not leave candles unattended, try votive candles in your jack o lanterns. Costume Safety Tips: - Costumes, masks, beards and wigs should be flame resistant. - Costumes should be light, bright and clearly visible to motorists, adding reflective tape can help make your child more visible to motorists. - Make-up is safer than a mask, which can obscure vision. Test the make-up to make sure your child doesn't have an alergic reaction. - Avoid oversize costumes and high-heeled shoes that can cause a child to trip. - Children should carry a flashlight to easily see and be seen. - Trick-or-treat bags should not be too large; they can obscure vision or cause a child to trip. - Costumes should have reflective strips or glow-in-the-dark patches. Halloween Hazards: • Sharp or pointed toy weapons. • Open flames. • Dangerous roadways. • Treacherous “treats” - examine all treats for signs of tampering and choking hazards. Children should not eat homemade treats made by strangers. • Do not allow children to carve pumpkins alone (special pumpkin cutters for kids are available at your local grocery or Halloween store). Consider attending a carnival or festival offered by many schools and faith communities in your area.