Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help them have a safe holiday, we've put together some safety tips. 

GETTING ALL DRESSED UP:

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective.
• Make sure that shoes fit well.
• Have costumes short enough to prevent tripping.
• Add reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for visibility.
• Use non-toxic makeup instead of masks that can limit eyesight.
• Make sure your children know their street address and phone number.
• Review with children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they ever have an emergency or become lost.

HOME SAFE HOME FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS:

• Move trip hazards like garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
• Make sure outdoor lights are working.
• Have a clear path to your house.
• Restrain pets, so they do not jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.

ON THE TRICK-OR-TREAT TRAIL:

• An adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• Carry flashlights with fresh batteries.
• If older children are going alone, familiarize yourself with the route they're taking and agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a house or car for a treat.
• Stay in a group.
• Don't forget your cell phone.
• Stay on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Only cross the street as a group in crosswalks.
• Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.
• No eating candy until it's been checked by an adult.

[Safety Tip Guidelines Are From American Academy of Pediatrics]

Bonus Video: