Tips to Stay Safe this Halloween
Published: 10/25/2023
Halloween is coming up fast, and the kids are excited about Trick-or-Treating. When the time comes, keep these tips in mind to make sure everyone stays safe on the big night.
See and Be Seen
Trick-or-Treaters need to be able to see! Avoid using masks that cover little ones’ eyes, as they can fall easily. No one wants a scraped knee on Halloween! In that same realm, make sure they can be seen. Dark comes fast this time of year, and kiddos need to be able to be visible to traffic. Use a light up trick-or-treat bucket, give them a flashlight to carry, or even add reflective tape to costumes to make sure they’re visible.
Have a Plan
Make sure adults know where kids are going. If they’re responsible enough to go out alone, have a plan and a route they should stick to. For younger kids, make sure a parent or another adult accompanies them to the door at each house.
Use Caution Around Animals
Bringing your dog trick-or-treating is fun, if they’re a friendly sort of pup. Make sure kids know not to approach dogs they don’t know, as costumes can confuse pets, and make them react in a not-so-good way. If you’re bringing your dog with you on your walk around the neighborhood, don’t use a retractable leash – keep your pup close to you at all times!
Slow Down and Play it Safe
Walk, don’t run from house to house. This cuts down on the chance of someone tripping, and also makes sure groups stay together when travelling from house to house.
Look for Porch Lights
Remember, the sign of a house welcoming trick-or-treaters is the porch light! If the porch light is on, head to the door and grab a treat. If the porch light is not on, head to the next house. Make sure kids never enter a house – only accept treats at the door or in the driveway.
Use Sidewalks if Available
If a sidewalk is available, use it! It’s much safer than being in the street. If no sidewalks are available, stay to the edge of the road, on the side facing traffic. Be sure to look both ways before crossing the street, and be respectful – don’t cut across yards.