It's October, one of my favorite months! I love seeing the leaves start to change color and enjoy welcoming fall. Halloween is just around the corner. The kids are itching to ring some doorbells and collect their bounty. While eating as much candy as possible is their number one priority, mine and yours as a parent is keeping them safe.
Here are 7 trick-or-treating safety tips to keep in mind this Halloween:
- Proper Supervision - Older kids can walk in groups, but younger children should never be out unless accompanied by a parent or other trusted adult.
- Use Reflective Tape- Being visible to cars is one of the best ways to keep your children safe. Attach reflective tape to all costumes as well as trick or treat bags to help drivers see you.
- Use a Flashlight- Adults and children should carry a flashlight. This can help illuminate the sidewalk and avoid trips and falls. A flashlight can also provide additional visibility.
- Walk, Don't Run- Kids get excited and while running from house to house will bring the candy in faster, it won't keep them safe. Make sure everyone walks and looks both ways when crossing a street.
- No Homemade Treats- While a homemade treat may look tasty, you should pass unless you know who it came from very well. Homemade treats can contain ingredients you are unaware of and can be an allergy risk. Stick to factory wrapped treats and immediately throw out anything that looks even slightly suspicious.
- Plan Your Route in Advance- You may end up several streets away from your home which can be disorientating and frustrating. Plan your route to avoid getting lost.
- Props Need to be Flexible- All props such as swords, guns or other weapons should be made of plastic or foam and be soft as well as flexible. This will help protect your kids, plus keep everyone who may be at the receiving end of a light saber battle or sword fight from getting hurt.
I hope you and your family have a very happy, safe Halloween!