Trick or Treating should be one of the great adventures of Halloween for kids! They can get dressed in scary costumes and go door to door; begging "Tricks or Treats!" It should be a fun time, without trouble and pain. Following some easy tips can keep your child safe.
- Children should go out during daylight hours unless accompanied by a responsible adult after dark.
- Plan a safe route so parents know where their older kids will be at all times. Set a time for their return home. Make sure that children are old enough and responsible enough to go out by themselves.
- Let your children know not to cut through back alleys and fields. Make sure they know to stay in populated places and don't go off the beaten track. Stay in well lighted areas.
- Stop only at familiar houses in their own neighborhood unless an adult accompanies them.
- Small children should never be allowed to go out alone on Halloween. Make sure an older sibling or adult is with them.
- Instruct your child to never go into the home of a stranger or get into their car.
- Make sure your child carries a flashlight, glow stick or has reflective tape on their costume to make the more visible to cars.
- Let them know that they should stay together as a group.
Drivers
Go slow, slow, slow all evening. (Adult Halloween partiers should have a designated driver).
More tips, including candy safety, from the American Academy of Pediatrics
When making your children's Halloween plans, remember these holiday safety-tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Masks are not recommended because they can obstruct a child's vision.If your child wears makeup, you should look for non-toxic, hypoallergenic kits.Costumes should be flame-retardant and fit properly. Avoid oversized shoes, high heels and long skirts or pants that could cause a child to fall.Children trick-or-treating after dusk should have reflective tape on their costumes and carry flashlights.Children shouldn't snack while they're trick-or-treating. Check all treats at home.Watch for signs of tampering, such as small pinholes in wrappers and torn or loose packages.
