Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween can be scary in more ways than just scary costumes and music. There are many safety risks to consider before heading out on Oct 31^st– Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind on Halloween night to keep your little ones safe.

#1 2021 SAFETY RULE is to be sure to follow all public health safety guidelines

To let others know you are following safe Halloween practices during the pandemic you can display a red pumpkin on your costume or at your door. Click here to read more about the red pumpkin campaign 

#2 Trick or treating with Toddlers and children under 5

Most toddlers have no idea what is going on and some dislike wearing a costume. As parents, we enjoy watching them dress up in their cute costumes and experiencing some of the excitement that Halloween offers. The best advice is baby steps for toddlers and children under 5 years and follow these tips:

• Head out early when its still light enough for them to see others and to be seen.
• Check out local day time events and avoid the spook.
• Go to homes you know and can guarantee there will not be any scary surprises.
• Your little one will likely enjoy handing out candy just as much as trick or treating.
• Don’t’ forget to remind them to use their manners – PLEASE & THANK YOU.

#3 Costume Safety

• All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant.
• If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them glow sticks or flashlights.
• Avoid masks for younger children. It’s better to use face paint to create the effect and allows them to see better.

#4 Safe Treats

• Don’t eat candy until it has been inspected at home.
• Eat a snack before heading out to avoid the temptation of nibbling on a treat before it has been inspected.
• In case of a food allergy, check the label to ensure the allergen isn’t present. Tell children not to accept—or eat—anything that isn’t commercially wrapped.
• Parents of very young children should remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys from the Halloween bags.
• Inspect commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes, or tears in wrappers. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.

# 5 When They’re on the Prowl

Here’s a scary statistic to keep in mind: Children are more then twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility because of low lighting at night also plays a factor in these incidents.

• A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds.
• Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk.
• Practice safety rules at home and set clear distance boundaries. Role play and make sure children know the dangers because the excitement of the night and a little sugar can turn a fun night into a scary one if you are not careful.
• Have Fun!

Click here for some fun Halloween Activities to do with your child – even if you decide to stay in for the night!