It’s that time of the year again…Halloween! Time to get the kids dressed in the best costumes and take them out for a night of trick-or-treating. While this night is meant for family-fun, it is also important that you are aware of a few simple safety rules. Follow these tips below to ensure a fun and safe evening of pumpkin carvings, costumes, and candy.
- Pumpkin Carving: If you and your family are partaking in the tradition of pumpkin carving, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind. It is important that sharp knives and cutting tools are kept away from children, and that only adults and older kids are participating in the carving. Involve your younger kiddos by letting them paint a pumpkin or help with removing the insides of the pumpkin once it is cut open.
- Costumes: Selecting a costume is very exciting for young kids, and it is important for parents to be aware of some safety risks before they let their child make their selection. Some costumes contain small parts or loose fitting clothing that can be dangerous to children, especially under the age of 12. It is also important to keep in mind that any costume requiring a mask can put your child at risk for a trip-and-fall accident, so make sure that everything fits properly before you begin trick-or-treating.
- Make a Plan: Once you have selected your costume and are dressed and ready to go, it is time to begin the door to door adventure. Parents, if you would like to make the most of your evening, try mapping out your route ahead of time and share your plan with anyone else you are trick-or-treating with. This will help keep everyone together and help you make the most of your time. It is also important to make sure that you have enough visibility outside as you are walking around. If you know that it will begin to get dark before you head home, be sure to pack a flashlight to provide better visibility.
- Inspect the Candy: Once the trick-or-treating has come to an end, it is best to inspect the candy that you child has collected. While it is not common, there have been reports of tainted candy on Halloween, so it is best not to take the risk.
Follow these simple Halloween tips so your family and friends can have a successful evening of trick-or-treating. What are your favorite Halloween traditions? What is the best costume you have ever worn? Share your favorite’s with us in the comments below!