Five Tips for a Safe Halloween

Parents all want their kids to have a fun Halloween. If you follow these ten tips, your child can have fun while staying safe.

Costume safety

Make up is safer than a mask. It won't obstruct your child's vision. Make sure the costume fits properly and doesn't drag on the ground. Children could easily trip over capes or tails that hang down too low.

Light the Way

Have your children carry a flashlight or a light stick. They can point the light at the sidewalk so they don't trip. You may want to add reflective tape to costumes so your trick or treater can be seen.

House to House

Only let your child walk up to lit houses. They should not go to the door of unlit homes. Always make them walk from house to house. Cutting across lawns and running in the dark is not safe. They could trip over sprinker hoses, toys, or other objects left in front lawns.

Follow That Child

This is not a problem with young children because they expect their parents to come along on Halloween night. However, as children get older they want some independence. Let them know that you will be coming along for their safety. Follow at a safe distance behind them so you can keep them in your sight, but give them more of a feeling of independence.

Look Over the Candy

Before you let your kids dig into the candy, check it over carefully. If wrappers are partially open, discard that piece. Do not let your children eat homemade goodies unless you know who made it.