Halloween Safety Tips
Safety & Awareness | September 1, 2022
Halloween safety tips to help keep you and your family (including pets) safe this year. As you are planning and celebrating for Halloween this year, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind.
Costumes
FLAME RESISTANT / RETARDANT
If the costume chosen is not flame retardant, search online for options and methods that can be done at home.
INDENTIFICATION & CONTACT INFORMATION
Children should have legible identification including name and contact information sewn or written on the INSIDE of their costume.
COSTUMES SHOULD BE WELL FITTED
Costumes that do not fit properly can cause safety hazards such as tripping and falling. The length should be altered not to drag. Clothing should allow for ease of movement and walking. Shoes should not have a heel, be comfortable, and fit properly.
MASKS VS. FACE PAINT
Whenever possible, avoid using masks. If a mask is necessary, mask should fit securely on face so eye holes do not move with motion. Eye holes should be large enough for adequate vision. Face paint is a safe, comfortable, affordable and effective alternative to masks and allows for variety and user creativity. Hypo-allergenic and non-toxic face paint should be used.
COSTUME COLOR
Trick-or Treating often occurs after daylight hours. Light colors should be chosen and should contain reflective material. Reflective options can be purchased, including tape/material that can be stuck on costume or sewn into the material.
WEATHER
Choose a costume that will allow for versatility with weather. Consider appropriate fabrics or options in case of rain. Costume should have ability to accommodate layers in the case of cold weather.
Trick-or-Treating
THE ROUTE
Plan the route ahead of time and it should be in a familiar area. A family member or friend (not accompanying trick-or-treating) should be give route information, including departure time and planned returned time. Indoor parties are a popular and safe alternative to outdoor trick-or-treating.
ADULT SUPERVISION & GROUPS
Younger children should be accompanied by a parent or trusted adult. Older youth should form and stick with a group.
NECESSITIES
A bag or backpack including a flashlight, watch, identification and cell phone should be taken. Additional items may include an extra candy bag in case straps break.
INSPECTION
Candy should never be eaten while trick-or-treating. Candy should be inspected, at home, by a trusted adult prior to eating. Candy with loose wrappings, puncture holes, or homemade should be thrown away.
Common Sense & Courtesy
- Never accept a ride from a stranger.
- Do not leave your group or your pre-planned route.
- Do not go inside houses, garages or other buildings for any reason.
- Walk. No running.
- Be aware of open flames in jack-o-lanterns.
- Stay on sidewalks. Cross only at intersections and designated crosswalks – do not jaywalk.
- Follow traffic signals.
- Watch for cars backing out of driveways or turning.
- Do not cut through yards or trample through flower beds. Stay out of back yards, fields and alleys.
- Do not stop at dark houses.
- Do not attempt to startle or scare young children.
- Remember to use manners including “please” and “thank you”.
- Do not go to a home more than once.
- Report any suspicious activity to police immediately.
Pets
ALWAYS LEAVE YOUR PET SECURELY AT HOME
While handing out candy, pets should be placed in a crate or room away from the door.
NEVER approach, scare or tease animals or pets, including your own, while in costume.
EMERGENCIES
If someone is injured, call for help or immediately go to a hospital.
FACTS:
- Pedestrian injuries, falls and burns account for the majority of injuries on Halloween.
- Halloween consistently ranks among the most deadly days of the year for pedestrians,
especially children.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!