Halloween can be one of the most fun nights of the year—but it’s important to keep safety top-of-mind. Before your little ghouls and goblins take to the streets in pursuit of candy, make sure that they understand basic safety tips, will be accompanied by a responsible adult if they’re not old enough to go out on their own, and that their costumes are designed with safety in mind. These best practices can help your trick-or-treater have a safe and happy Halloween.
Help your child choose a safe costume.
- Only purchase flame-resistant costumes and wigs.
- Whenever possible, choose lighter colors for costumes (which can help your child be seen better in the dark).
- Make sure the costume is the right size for your child. If it’s too tight it’ll be uncomfortable; too big, and your child could risk tripping over it while walking.
- Make sure your child’s shoes are appropriate for the weather/temperature and aren’t too big or too small.
- If your child’s costume includes accessories like swords, make sure they aren’t sharp.
Accompany your kids and/or know their route.
- You or another responsible adult should go trick-or-treating with your kids.
- If your older children are mature enough to go out without an adult present, be sure to plan and review an acceptable route with them before they head out.
- Whatever your kids’ ages, they should stick with their friends and only travel in well-lit, familiar areas while trick-or-treating.
Maximize visibility.
- Decorate kids’ costumes and trick-or-treat bags with reflective tape.
- Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights.
Help your kids see well, too.
- Avoid having them wear masks, which can interfere with visibility.
- Use non-toxic face paint and makeup on their faces. Test it prior to Halloween to make sure it doesn’t cause an allergic reaction. Make sure your child removes the makeup after they’re done trick-or-treating and before going to bed that night.
- Never allow your child to use decorative contact lenses as part of their costume without an eye exam and a prescription from an eye care professional.
A few more basic safety tips…
- Make sure your child knows how to call 911 in case of an emergency.
- Remind your children never to enter a stranger’s home or car.
- Tell your children to walk on sidewalks whenever possible and to always look both ways before crossing the street.
- Tell your children to not eat any of their treats until they arrive home and you can inspect them for signs of tampering or choking hazards.
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