Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is a big celebration for my family.  The kids get dressed up, the cousins and aunts and uncles come over, and we all head out to go trick-or-treating.  But the fun of Halloween also brings increased risks. This year, follow these Halloween safety tips to protect your kids.

  • Go with your kids.  I know, we used to roam the neighborhoods, play in the middle of the street, etc.  But things aren’t as safe as they used to be.  Accompany your kids to keep them safe.  At a minimum, if you don’t go with them, make sure you know the route they’ll take.
  • I don’t want to be an alarmist, but go on the internet and check your local area for registered sex offenders.  Make sure your kids avoid these houses.
  • If your kids are going out with others, know what activities they’ll be attending, such as parties or school functions.  If they’re going to a friend’s home, make sure you have met their parents and have their phone numbers.
  • Make sure that your kids have safe costumes.  All costumes should be fire proof or treated with fire retardant.  If your kids are wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes fit and are large enough for good peripheral vision.
  • If you’re driving around a neighborhood, remain extra vigilant looking for kids.  Similarly, if you’re walking around a neighborhood, make sure you keep the flashlight out and that you can be seen.
  • For your own house, make sure your front porch and steps are well-lit so kids don’t get hurt coming to or going from your home.

Happy Halloween & Have Fun!