Halloween Trick-or-Treating Safety Reminders

Halloween is creeping up quickly, and the kids are anticipating dressing up and going trick-or-treating. In the excitement of it all they're more likely to be prone to accidents without safety reminders. Discussing safety tips before leaving the house is the best way to ensure their protection; following are some points to include in your conversation.

• Ask your child to walk rather than run to help prevent falls or running into other kids
• Explain that they need to keep in your sight at all times. They should especially not ring a doorbell or enter someone's house if you're not right with them
• Remind them they must look both ways and hold hands every time you cross the street. Even older children that may not need help can be an example to younger siblings by following this rule
• Head out earlier before it gets too dark, especially if you have young children. If it does get late, use flashlights and reflective gear to stay visible to drivers and other trick-or-treaters
• If your child is too young to walk well, keep them in a stroller or child carrier like a sling or Moby wrap
• Caution your children to avoid eating any candy until you return home and can inspect it. Tell them not to pick up any candy they find on the sidewalk
• Remind your children to respect the property of others including lawn decor, pumpkins, and animals. Some kids see Halloween as an excuse to behave poorly, but they shouldn't
• Consider attending a "trunk or treat" held in a contained parking lot or building, including neighborhood events, church parties, or local places like the mall

Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!