Halloween Safety: Beyond the Basics for a Fun and Safe Night
Halloween is a time for fun from the costumes to the treats to the family-friendly frights. While I’m sure you know the common sense advice: stick to the well-lit areas, check the treats before letting your kids eat them, etc., there are other often overlooked key safety measures that can help ensure your family enjoys a fun night.
Here are a few tips to keep your little ghosts and goblins safe, without sacrificing the fun:
Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Map out a trick-or-treating route in advance to help prevent wandering off to unfamiliar areas
Stick to neighborhoods you know
Set a curfew or a time limit for older kids
If possible, inform someone at home of your planned route, especially if the older kids are trick-or-treating with their friends
Costume Safety
When dressing in a costume, it’s important to think about your kids ability to move and see clearly. Use your best judgment!
Set Candy Boundaries
Whether you have to check the candy before they eat it, they need to have a healthy snack before heading out, whatever the case may be … set these boundaries early so your kids know what to expect
Consider setting a limit on how many pieces of candy they can enjoy that evening to avoid sugar crashes or upset tummies
Drive Carefully
If you’re out and about driving during trick-or-treat times, be extra cautious as kids are unpredictable and they may run into the street without warning
Remember, the city and the surrounding suburbs have different trick-or-treat days and times!
Stranger Safety
Remind your kids, particularly the older kids if they’re going trick-or-treating without you, remind them not to enter anyone’s home or vehicle. Remind them of the temptations a stranger may have (toys, candy, etc.).
Make it a game to make it less scary. For example, you can play a game of “what if” scenarios. The more you engage your kids in the process, the more likely they are to remember the rules.
By thinking and planning ahead, you can help ensure your family enjoys a Halloween night full of treats-and no tricks.
Happy Halloween!
