Halloween Safety Tips for Kids

We all want our kids to be safe on Halloween. Teaching them these three simple steps will help to keep your children safe and have fun. The first and most important tip is to not let your child go trick-or-treating on their own.

Picking a Costume

It is important to pick a costume that will be fire proof. Your child will be going to doors where there will most likely be pumpkins that are lit up with candles. You want to make sure that their costume is fire-retardant. You also want to cut holes in their mask that are big enough for the child to see through, not only straight ahead, but they should have clear peripheral vision as well. It may be safer in this case to use face paint instead of wearing masks. This will also ensure that the child's breathing is not restricted in any way. Make sure that costumes are short enough and that your child is wearing shoes that will prevent them from tripping or falling. Any accessories they carry with their costume should also have smooth tips and be somewhat flexible so the child doesn't get hurt if they do trip or fall. On the inside of the costume, it is a good idea to print your child's name, address, and telephone number. Do not put this information on the outside of the costume where it can be seen by strangers.

While Trick-or-Treating

Make sure your child stays in a group and let's you know where they will be trick-or-treating. It is safest to trick-or-treat in neighborhoods that are familiar to you. Do not go to houses where the porch light is not on. Remember to stay in well lit areas. Never go into someone's house or get into their car for any reason. Obey all traffic rules and never assume that you, as a pedestrian, have the right of way. Make sure you look both ways before crossing any streets and don't run. Always walk. Again, it is important that young trick-or-treaters should be accompanied by an adult or a child that is older and responsible.

Inspecting Treats

All treats should be inspected by an adult before allowing the child to eat them. If you have been given treats that are not wrapped, look like they've been tampered with, have spoiled, or look suspicious in any other way throw them away. You may also get items that are baked or homemade. These should also be discarded unless they are given to you by someone you know and trust personally. You may want to feed your child before they leave home so they are not tempted to eat the candy.

Before your child leaves make sure they have money. Giving them a few quarters will allow them to call you in case they get lost, have to be picked up, or encounter any other kind of emergency.