Brooke Tucker-Reid, momstown writer
Dress your child as a florescent orange pylon with reflective stripes. My work here is done.
In all seriousness, Halloween trick or treating can be a blast for kids but safety must be top of mind. Follow these safety tips before your little monsters hit the town to reap pillow cases full of candy you’re bound to devour until Christmas.
For parents accompanying little ones
When helping your child pick their Halloween costume, encourage them to choose a brightly coloured garment to make it easy for yourself and drivers to identify them. Take extra precaution by sticking a strip of reflective tape to their backs to make it easier for drivers to see them. Also, navigate away from masks or large hats as they can hinder peripheral vision. Hem any costumes that drag on the ground to prevent your child front tripping.
While getting dressed for the big night, layer up for a chilly weather – if your child gets warm you can always toss a layer in their candy sack. Write your child’s name, address and phone number on their costume somewhere in case they stray from you. Once home, inspect your youngsters delectable bounty for any open packaging, age appropriate candy (tossing any choking hazards) and suspicious looking treats.
Is your child old enough to trick or treat on their own? Read on
The first year you allow your child to go out without an adult can be nerve racking. There is strength in numbers to ensure junior sticks with at least two of their friends you trust. They might not appreciate the extra weight in their sacks but send them along with a flashlight (with fresh batteries), a time telling device and/or a cell phone. Walk their trick or treating route together the day before so you know exactly where your child will be. Ask them to call you if they deviate from that route. Instruct them to only approach houses that have lights on. Set a curfew and ask them not to eat anything before you have the chance to inspect it.
Safeguard your (haunted) house too
- Have peanut-free/gluten-free/dairy-free treats on hand for kids who may have an allergy. Stickers, slap bracelets or bouncy balls are good options
- Remove items or debris from pathways that little ones might trip on as they approach your door
- Turn on all outdoor lights and ensure all burnt-out lightbulbs have been replaced
- Consider using an electric candle in your jack-o-lantern to ward off any fire hazards
Have a safe and happy Halloween! What are some of your best Halloween safety tips?
