It’s dark, and the sidewalks are full of young kids walking up to every house on the block and declaring, “trick or treat!” — all while wearing masks. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, but we all know that Halloween is great fun for children and adults alike.
Before all that fun, however, there are some basic precautions you should take to ensure the whole family has a safe and sane Halloween. Here are some tips from the experts at the U.S. Product Safety Commission and other agencies:
Get the right fit for costumes.
Masks that are too big can slide around and block a child’s vision. A cape that is too long can cause trips and falls. Baggy clothing can easily brush against a candle and catch fire. So make sure those costumes fit. And don’t forget accessories. Whether they’re play swords or wands, they should be soft and flexible.
Know where you’re going before you leave.
If you’re going to be out after dark, it makes sense to stick to places you know. Go to familiar neighborhoods and only approach houses that have their outside lights on. Finally, never let kids enter a stranger’s home without an adult accompanying them.
Keep things bright.
Because you’ll likely be walking around at night, it’s crucial that drivers and other people can see your group. Carry glow sticks and strong flashlights, both for your own vision and so you’re visible to others. Put reflective tape (usually available at hardware and sporting-goods stores) on costumes, clothing and candy bags. And, if you’re taking pets out with you, make sure they can be seen, too. You can add reflective tape or attach a flashing light to collars or leashes.
Check out the candy.
Your kids are going to be eating the stuff, so, when you get home, make sure nobody has tampered with it. You’ll want to watch for choking hazards as well if you have young children. Finally, be sure to keep the loot away from your pets. Candy isn’t good for them, and some ingredients, such as chocolate, can be toxic.
There are plenty of opportunities for fun on Halloween, but dangerous situations are lurking as well. Remember that a little planning will go a long way toward safety on October 31.
And don’t forget moderation. A little candy goes a long way, too!