Halloween is a fun time of year for everyone—young or old. Young children get to dress up in costume and knock on doors for treats, young adults have fun attending costume parties, and older adults enjoy taking their favorite little ones out trick-or-treating. Before heading out trick-or-treating this year, review these handy tips to ensure everyone has a fun, safe time.
Costume
Safety starts with the costume. Kids’ costumes should be easy to see in and move around in. Make sure if children are wearing masks, they can easily see through them. There shouldn’t be any loose or moving pieces that they can trip on or that could start on fire when walking near lit jack-o-lanterns. Skip the costume accessories like swords or knives that could become a hazard. Try to avoid all-black costumes, and put reflective tape on costumes or bags so drivers can see children. If children are wearing face makeup, try testing a small area of skin first before doing the whole face; you’ll find out quickly if the makeup irritates their skin or eyes.
Walking
If the children are walking, they should always be in a group or with a trusted adult. Children should stick to sidewalks, use crosswalks when crossing the street, and walk instead of running. Carrying a flashlight or a glowstick is a good idea too, especially because most trick-or-treaters will be out in the dark. Children should not be on electronic devices while they walk.
Treats
All treats should be checked before consumption. Adults should make sure all treats are properly sealed and untampered with. Ensure there aren’t any choking hazards either. Children should only eat store-bought treats, or those from a trusted friend or family member. Homemade treats made by strangers could be tampered with. Remember that if your child has a food allergy, homes with a teal pumpkin out front offer safe treats for those with food allergies.
Make sure—if your children are above 12-years-old and are able to trick-or-treat without you—that they only go in safe, trusted neighborhoods.
