Halloween is a fun time for kids, but it is also an important time to be extra vigilant for possible safety hazards so that your children have a fun and safe Halloween. Some tips to make Halloween safe include:
Motorists
· Watch for children darting out from between parked cars.
· Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
· Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
· At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
Parents
· Make sure that an adult supervises the children.
· Plan and discuss the route trick-or-treaters intend to follow.
· Instruct your children to stop only at houses that are well lit and to never enter a stranger's home.
· Establish a return time.
· Tell your youngsters not to eat any treat until they return home.
· Review all appropriate trick-or-treat safety precautions, including pedestrian/traffic safety rules.
Accessories
· Knives, swords and other accessories should be made form cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects.
· Bags or sacks carried by youngsters should be light-colored or trimmed with retro reflective tape if children are allowed out after dark.
· Carrying flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly.
On the way
- Do not enter homes or apartments without adult supervision.
- Walk; do not run, from house to house.
- Walk on sidewalks, not in the street.
- Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic if there are no sidewalks.
Treats
· Give children an early meal before going out.
· Insist that treats be brought home for inspection before anything is eaten.
· Wash fruit and slice it into small pieces.
· When in doubt, throw it out.
I hope this article has reminded you of some important safety tips for Halloween. With some simple precautions, you can ensure that Halloween remains a safe and happy experience for the whole family.
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