Stay Safe This Halloween

Approximately 35 million children go trick-or-treating every Halloween!  Soon your neighborhood will be full of ghosts, cowboys, princesses, movie characters, and many more fun, creative costumes. If you plan on taking your children trick-or-treating, here are some safety tips you should follow.

• Walk safely and put down your phone. Halloween is a busy time in most neighborhoods. There are kids and adults walking around, and it is important to be careful while you are walking. Cross the street at the corners instead of jaywalking, try to stay on the sidewalk or walking paths, and put your phone down so you can pay attention to your surroundings better.
• Trick-or-treat as a group. If your children are under the age of 12, it is a good idea for them to go with adult supervision. If your child is going with a group of friends, make sure they travel as a group and know the route they are taking before they leave so you know where they will be throughout the night.
• Select safe but fun costumes. Be sure your child’s costume does not obstruct their vision too much. Whenever possible, try to use makeup or face paint. Also, if you plan on trick or treating at night, it may be a good idea to put reflective tape somewhere on the costumes and bring a flashlight along.
• Select costume props carefully. Props can be very fun to add to a costume, but make sure that the pointy ends of knives, pitchforks, etc. are smooth and flexible rather than sharp.
• Pet Safety: Keep pets indoors to avoid them becoming anxious or scared by costumes or loud noises in the neighborhood. Some pets might bolt or become aggressive when startled.
• Drive Slowly: If you’re out driving, be especially cautious in residential areas where kids are trick-or-treating.

Keeping your family safe doesn't have to take away from the excitement of Halloween. With a little planning and awareness, you can help protect your children, pets, and neighbors while still enjoying all of the traditions that make the holiday special. By prioritizing safety and staying mindful of your surroundings, you'll be better prepared to enjoy an evening filled with costumes, treats, and lasting memories. Enjoy your Halloween!