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Halloween safety tips

Keep Halloween activities danger-free with this essential advice for kids and parents

Halloween should be fun for both parents and children. Because we know you want to make sure that the celebration is safe for all, we suggest that you print the following list of safety tips to hang on your fridge or notice board. Take a few minutes to sit down with older children and go over the ground rules before they head out on their own. Knowing that everyone understands the importance of safety while trick-or-treating will make you confident that both you and your kids will have a great Halloween.

Costumes

• Costumes should be of a light colour or should have reflective areas so the wearer can be seen in the dark.
• Costumes should be flame-retardant and not too baggy or long to cause tripping.
• Masks, wigs and hoods should not obstruct the child's vision. If they do, use face make-up instead.

Trick-or-treat: kids

• Carry a torch.
• Walk, don't run.
• Obey all traffic signals.
• Stay in familiar neighbourhoods.
• Don't take short cuts through gardens, alleyways or parks.
• Make sure costumes don't drag on the ground.
• Shoes should fit (even if they don't go with the costume).
• Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.
• Carry only flexible knives, swords or other props.
• Approach only houses that are lit.
• Do not accept lifts from strangers.
• Have a designated time to be home.

Trick-or-treat: adults

• Children shouldn't go trick-or-treating alone. An adult or teenager should accompany them.
• Parents/guardians should know where the children will be trick-or-treating and the route they will take.
• An adult should check all sweets before allowing children to eat them.
• Welcome trick-or-treaters with any exterior lights on.
• Patrol your street occasionally to discourage speeding motorists and acts of malicious mischief.
• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police.
• Do not give homemade or unwrapped treats to trick-or-treating children.

Compiled by Birthday Express

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