What You Need to Know About Halloween Safety

The weather is getting cooler, football is on TV and so it must be almost time for Halloween. Along with the immense responsibility of choosing the perfect costume, it’s also really important to teach your kids about Halloween safety. Despite the urban legends about strangers and poisoned candy, research shows the biggest risk your children face on Halloween is traffic accidents. Excited kids darting into traffic and reduced visibility because of costumes all increase the risk to your child.

Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe:

• Check costumes carefully to make sure they do not restrict mobility. Kids need to be able to move easily in their costume.
• Use makeup instead of masks when possible. Kids need to be able to see clearly in their costume.
• If using a prop like a sword, make sure it’s flexible and not rigid or sharp.
• For young children, attach their name and phone number somewhere on their costume.
• Add reflective tape or lighting to the costume or bag to increase visibility.
• Have kids carry flashlights or glow sticks so it’s easier for drivers to see them.
• Younger kids should always be accompanied by an adult.
• Use this opportunity to remind kids where to cross the street safely – at intersections and crosswalks.
• Remind your kids how to cross the street safely – look left, then right and then left again to make sure the way is clear.
• Hold hands when crossing the street – and walk, don’t run.
• Go trick-or-treating in groups if possible to increase visibility.