Trick-Or-Treat Safety Tips

Trick or treating on Halloween is a fun experience for you and your kids to share. But cranky, tired, and over-excited kids can sometimes lead to safety issues.  Here are some kids to help keep you and your kids safe and make your trick or treating experience go as smoothly as possible.

Check the Weather:

Kids are going to be outside for a few hours, so make sure they are dressed accordingly. Of course, your child wants everyone to see that cute costume, but if it’s going to be cold, think about having your child put a sweater on under their costume. Add leggings, and maybe some waterproof boots or thermal underwear, hats, and gloves to keep your kids comfortable for a long night.

Stash the Fancy Footwear:

Children are going to be walking around for hours, so make sure they put on the right pair of sneakers to avoid blisters and other foot problems. Also, make sure the costume isn’t too long and there aren’t loose pieces attached. A costume that’s too long can cause a kid to trip and fall, and loose articles of clothing can get caught on branches, bushes, etc. Also, make sure that any mask or makeup they have doesn’t obstruct their vision.

Plan the Route Ahead of Time:

Planning out a route will help children know where they’re going in case they get separated from the pack. It is also a good way to make sure that your child crosses as few streets as possible for their safety. Maybe do a practice run with your kids so they are familiar with their route. Of course, having an adult or two present should help keep kids from getting lost.

Light up the Night:

If your child will be out trick or treating after dark, be sure to add reflective tape to their costumes or have them bring a flashlight, glow stick, etc. with them. Even the most careful driver can have trouble seeing at night, so make sure that your child stays illuminated for their own safety.

Keep Your Eyes on the Road:

On the same note, if you’re going to drive during the trick-or-treating hours, be sure to pay attention! Expect the unexpected. Many pedestrians will be hard to see, and with their masks on they might not even see your car coming. Keep your eyes on the road, stop at each cross walk, and be sure to look both ways before taking your foot off the brakes.

Check the Candy:

Finding razorblades and needles in Halloween candy is rare, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t check the candy anyway. Go through your kid’s collection and throw away any candy that is unwrapped or has a broken seal, as these can be unsanitary or dangerous.

Stay safe out there and have a Happy Halloween!