Most children (and even some adults) look forward to this spooky and playful holiday. Families travel from door to door and the “stranger danger” rule is overlooked for this one night. With costumes and candies and hayrides also comes a few dangers that we believe parents should be aware of. Below are some tips and tricks (no pun intended) that could help you avoid the dangerous risks that come with Halloween.
1. Give them a glow stick to wear.
On average, children are almost twice as likely to get hit by a car on Halloween night. Provide glow in the dark accessories to your children and their friends so that they are seen by drivers when crossing the street.
2. Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult.
However, if you feel like your child is old enough to be out without a parent, make sure that they track only through familiar areas that are also well-lit.
3. Teach your children to never enter a stranger’s home.
This is where the stranger danger term SHOULD be used!
4. All costumes, wigs, and accessories should be fire-resistant.
This may seem over the top, but Halloween is a time for haunted houses with torches and such. It’s just not worth the perfect look for one night.
5. Let your children know not to cut through back alleys and dark fields alone.
Make sure they know to stay in crowded, busy areas and not go off the beaten path. It is also important to stay in very well-lit areas.
6. Hold hands with younger siblings.
This is a great chance to start holding your older children accountable for the younger ones. When crossing a street, make sure the older kids are holding hands with their little siblings.
7. Small children should never carve pumpkins.
Instead, let them draw the face with markers. Parents should always do the cutting.
8. Restrain your pets.
During the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., household pets should be kept away from the front door and porch. This prevents children (who may be in scary costumes) away from the risk of being bitten.
9. A full meal prior to trick-or-treating or a party will help discourage children to fill up on candy.
More for Mom, right?
10. Review 9-1-1.
Younger children may have forgotten danger protocols, like dialing for help. Review how, why, and when to dial 9-1-1 in case your child becomes lost or is put in danger.
11. Clear your driveways and lawns.
Do a quick sweep before sunset to ensure that wires, hoses, cords, etc. are not a tripping hazard in the dark.
12. Do not eat homemade treats.
I know they look super yummy, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
13. Consider sugar substitutes.
Instead of sugary treats, hand out stickers, glow sticks, or coloring books.