Halloween is a fun night for
children, but it can be a scary night for parents. If your children are
too old to have Mom or Dad tag along with them, make sure you review these
safety rules before they head out the door:
·
Review traffic
safety—look both ways before crossing the street; walk, don’t run; obey
traffic signs; trick or treat down one side of a street at a time.
·
Have an
agreed-upon time for children to return home.
·
Be cautious of
strangers, and never go inside anyone’s house.
·
Organize a group
of children who agree to visit homes together. Choose an older child who
will be responsible for keeping others in line.
·
Prepare a tag that
includes your child’s name, address, and phone number. Attach it to his
costume in case he gets separated from the group.
·
Put reflective
tape on costumes so motorists can see children in the dark.
·
Map out a
reasonable route with your child beforehand.
·
Tell your children
to go only to houses that are well-lit both inside and outside.
·
Buy or make
flame-resistant costumes.
·
Make sure costumes
are loose enough to allow room for garments underneath for warmth and
freedom of movement.
·
Consider face
painting instead of a mask. Masks often obstruct a child’s vision.
·
Tell children to
stay on sidewalks and driveways. No running through yards.
·
Have at least one
child in the group carry a flashlight.
·
Instruct children
to refrain from eating candy until they bring it home. Inspect all candy
for tampering.
