For a happy and safe Halloween season, parents and children and encouraged to follow some of the tips provided.
• Avoid homes that are cluttered, dark and appear unsafe.
• Make sure phone battery is charged and do not use excessively in case it is needed for an emergency.
• Let someone know your exact route and estimated time of getting back home, if you deviate from the plan, inform them exactly where you are going and how much additional time you may need.
• Travel in groups.
• Do not visit unfamiliar neighborhoods and surroundings, as you may get lost.
• Do not get into stranger’s vehicles.
• When arriving home ration out candy into smaller bags to spread out over the course of a few weeks to avoid an upset stomach.
• Purchase comfortable costumes, where children can move around, have fun and breathe properly. Certain costumes may be too hot– encourage kids to remove their head piece every thirty minutes (less for smaller children because they will dehydrate sooner) for proper breathing and to avoid dehydration or any heat illness. Take water and have children drink frequently.
• Do not enter anyone’s home.
• Have a parent go through candy and throw anything that looks suspicious, opened, damaged or soiled in any way.
For those decorating for Halloween, the following are some additional safety tips for a fun and safe Halloween.
• If you have the means give out large candy bars!
• Do not decorate your home with pointed material or any hazardous object that could harm anyone.
• Scaring can be fun, but keep it safe by not using dangerous objects as props.
• If or when using electrical devices that move around, keep electrical wires away from walk-ways or anywhere people will walk. If necessary use a caution tape around area, or make a do not touch sign.
• Decorate your home with lots of lighting and make it easy to navigate to avoid any possible injury to others.