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Halloween can be lots of fun for kids, little and big but it is also filled with unseen dangers. From exposure to predators to random accidents, Halloween night can be a hazardous night for both kids and adults.
masses of children roaming the streets + restrictive viewing through make up and masks + nighttime conditions = potentially dangerous and hazardous night.
To ensure your kids end up with a bag full of loot and nothing else, here are some safety reminders.
- Use reflective tape on dark colored costumes. Add it to the costume or the trick or treat bag if your kids don’t want to “mess up” their costume.
- Wear comfortable shoes and trim any costumes pieces that drag the ground to avoid tripping hazards and Halloween injuries.
- Avoid stranger danger. Only visit homes of people you know.
- Approach well lit homes with porch lights turned on or with doors open. This is the universal sign saying “I’ve got candy. Come n get it!”! BTW-Always say “Thank You” when you get your treat. It’s just good manners and people love to hear it!
- Travel in groups (for older kids) and stay together at all times. Adopt the Marine’s policy of “leave no man behind”.
- Walk on sidewalks or near the curb. Steer clear of the street whenever possible, especially busy intersections or major roadways.
- BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS. Know where cars are entering and exiting the streets. Know what other people are around you, where they’re coming from and the general direction the flow of crowds are heading. Be aware of street names and house numbers ESPECIALLY if you end up in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
- Toss any opened or suspicious looking candy or treats. I even steer clear of apples, grapes and fruit without a thick peel-able skin like oranges and bananas.
If you follow this simple common-sense approach to Trick or Treating, you can have a wonderful Halloween evening filled with lots of fun and plenty of loot!
While we’re on the topic of Halloween and Trick or Treating, when do you let the kids “go it alone” on one of the busiest nights of the year. By the time my parent’s turned me loose on our 1/8 of a mile cul-de-sac street, I about 12 years old and more into dressing up and hanging out with my friends than “trick or treating”.
