With Halloween approaching rapidly, adults should take precautions to ensure that their children will have a safe, enjoyable evening when they go out trick or treating.
For starters, parents should make sure children wear well–fitted clothing and shoes that make it easy for them to move around without stumbling. Try on costumes before Halloween. Ask your child to walk around the house a bit. That way you can fix anything that might cause a fall or is constrictive. Make sure accessories, such as swords, are made of soft or flexible material.
Young children should be encouraged to use makeup rather than masks because masks can obstruct vision, especially in the dark. Children should also carry flashlights, and wear light–colored costumes decorated with reflective tape that can easily been seen by drivers. Adults should remember to take extra precautions when driving on Halloween night because children will be everywhere.
It's best to have at least one adult accompany each group of children. If children are old enough to be out on their own, parents should know the approximate "path" they plan to take, and all children should have a specific time limit for when they are to return home (a portal alarm clock can be carried as a reminder). Instruct children to be selective regarding the homes they visit – only those with lights on, preferably in neighborhoods they know.
Children should never trick or treat alone and should not enter any home, unless it is the home of a friend.
Children should be especially wary of cars, remembering to avoid running across streets and checking driveways for cars backing out. They should be instructed to cross only at corners, and never between parked cars or mid–block.
Instruct children to stay clear of cats and dogs while in costume. A strange costume can make even the tamest dog aggressive.
Emphasize that all goodies need to be brought home for inspection before eating. Explain why this is important to children. Only eat treats in original, unopened wrappers. Throw away candy if wrappers are faded, have holes or tears, or if the candy has been unwrapped.
Check fruit and homemade treats for punctures or contamination. Allow your child to eat such items only if from someone you know and trust. Fruit should be cut into sections to check for sharp objects. Feed the kids before trick or treating and they'll be less tempted to eat from their bag.
If you suspect a potential poisoning, contact the poison center immediately at 1–800–222–1222
Children get very excited in anticipation of Halloween.
These simple precautions will keep the day safe and fun for all.
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