Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.
When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.
Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.
Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.
When Trick-or-Treating
A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.
Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
Never cut across yards or use alleys.
Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks.
Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.
No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.
Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.
After Trick-or-Treating
Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.
Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.
This information highlights examples of safety precautions
you can consider to protect yourself, your family, and your property. This list
is not meant to be all-inclusive. Moreover, a particular precaution may not be
effective or appropriate in all circumstances. We encourage you to use your own
good judgement about what's appropriate.
Before Halloween
