Halloween Child Safety
Costume Suggestions:
Choose light or bright colored costumes and use light reflective tape.
Children shouldn't wear a mask; it restricts vision. If a mask must be worn, cut large eye holes. Make-up is much safer than a mask because it doesn't obstruct vision.
Toy weapons, wands, brooms, etc. should be made of paper or cardboard; they are safer than plastic, wood or metal.
Put the child's name, address and phone number on the inside of their costume in case of an accident or lost child.
Children should wear comfortable shoes; poor-fitting shoes are uncomfortable and may cause a fall.
Trick or Treat bags should not be too large; they can obscure vision or cause your child to trip.
Make sure wigs and costumes are fire proof.
To Trick or Treat Safely, Your Child Should:
Eat a full meal prior to going out so he/she won't be tempted to eat treats before they can be properly checked out. Tell your children not to eat treats until you have checked them out.
Plan your child's route and visit only homes in your neighborhood that are well lighted.
Travel in a group or with an adult; never enter a home.
Carry a flashlight or glow stick.
Cross streets at corners, never from between two vehicles.
When crossing a street, STOP and LOOK both ways before crossing streets and LISTEN.
Walk on the sidewalk or facing traffic if there are no sidewalks.
Watch for cars driving into or backing out of driveways.
Treats -- Give Them A Safety Check:
Check for holes or loose wrappers, pour powdered candy into a container and look for discoloration or lumps.
Don't eat opened candy, fruit, etc., unless you know the person it came from.
Wash fruit, then cut into bite-size pieces.
Soft candy should also be cut up into pieces before eating.
Homemade treats should not be eaten unless you are absolutely sure they came from a safe source.
Some hospitals will x-ray treat bag contents. Check with your local hospital for additional information.
If any problems arise, call your local Police Department at 911.
Tricks: Tell Your Children...
Remember, Halloween is a good time for dangerous strangers, so be careful.
Don't play pranks. Damaging other peoples' property is a crime.
If your child is the victim of a crime (stolen candy, intimidation, threats, etc.) either talk to the suspect's parents, or call the police if you wish to prosecute.
Safety Around Home:
Do not light candles around the walkways. If you would like luminaries or to light a jack-o-lantern, use a battery operated light source or glow stick.
Keep walkways unobstructed and well lit.
Don't let anyone you don't know into your home.
Safe Alternatives:
Trick or Treat in a local shopping mall.
Attend community sponsored events. Watch newspapers for additional information.
Host a family party.
Join your neighbors for a theme block party.
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