How to Have a Safe Halloween

Halloween night is an exciting night for kids of all ages, but it is also a night where extra thought should go into safety. Perform these tips before and on Halloween to ensure that the night ends happy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Costume Safety

1. Pick a costume that is fire proof and fits the child well. The length should not go down past his ankles, and he should wear properly fitting shoes.

2. Refrain from using a mask, if possible, and opt for non-toxic makeup instead. If a mask is necessary, choose one that has large eye holes that do not get in the way of vision.

3. Add some reflective tape to the costume, or have your child carry a glow stick or flashlight with her.

4. Check costume accessories, such as daggers or swords, to ensure they are made of flexible material and can not cause injury if fell on.

Trick-or-Treating Safety

5. Choose an adult or older teenager to go trick or treating with your children if you are not available. For older children, it is safest to go out with a large group of friends.

6. Plan out a route that keeps them close to home and on streets where you know a lot of trick-or-treaters go. Have a set time when older kids are to be home, and provide a cell phone if possible.

7. Remind them about basic safety lessons such as not running in the streets, looking both ways before crossing, never talking to strangers and not going into anyone’s house.

Treats Safety

8. Wait to eat any treats until you get home. Once home, remove candy from your bag and have an adult look them over.

9. Discard any treats that you feel uncertain about or that have no wrapper. This includes fresh fruit and homemade treats.

10. Check to make sure there are no choking hazards for young children. These could include small toys or hard candies.