Have a Very Safe & Happy Halloween!
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Small children should always be with an adult or older child.
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If you are making your own children's costumes, make sure the costume allows for good visibility through the mask.
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If you purchase costumes for your children, double-check the clothing tags to ensure they are made with flame-retardant material.
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It's always a good idea to put reflective tape or tags on the kids' costumes to increase visibility. Light sticks (glow sticks) also make excellent visibility enhancers.
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No running on the sidewalks! Even when you think you know an area, you never know what may be laying around that someone could trip on. Always stay off the streets unless crossing at the corners. Cut off or tie up loose costume areas to prevent hazardous walking.
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Be sure your children carry a good, working flashlight with them if they are going to be out at dark. This will help them to see as well as be seen in the dark. Replace weak batteries with fresh ones.
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Children can be given a cellular telephone to take with them, especially if they are going to travel to another neighborhood, so they can call you in case of an emergency. Also, if your children are supposed to be home at a certain time, make sure one of them has a watch that is in good working order.
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Know the area that your children will be trick or treating in and make sure it's well lit at night.
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Make certain your kids know to stay with the group and not to wander off alone. Instruct them to never go inside someone's house unless it is with a large group all at once.
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No matter how much they beg ... no matter how much they plead, never feed them any goodies while still trick or treating. After your children have arrived home safely, make sure to check over their candy, fruit, and such before you let them eat any of it. Unfortunately, there have been occasional news reports in the past years concerning people finding hazards in the edible things that their children have brought home from trick or treating. This can happen even in neighborhoods where you feel secure.
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By following these simple tips, your children can have a fun-filled Halloween, and you can rest a little easier knowing that you have done your best to make it that way.
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