How to Keep Your Kids Safe This Halloween

Before you join your ghosts and goblins for a night of trick-or-treating, read these tips to keep them safe in their costumes, eating candy, or walking around the neighborhood.

• Slip a piece of paper in their treat bag that identifies the child’s name and where he or she lives, in case the child is separated from the group.
• Avoid masks or head gear that blocks vision, long costumes or awkward shoes that could cause a fall, and loose or non-fire-resistant material that could ignite near a candle.
• Use hypoallergenic makeup for face painting instead of masks that could block vision. Don't apply makeup too close to the eyes.
• Make sure swords and other accessories are made of cardboard or other flexible materials.
• Mark costumes and accessories with reflective tape and provide flashlights.
• An adult should check sweets for signs of tampering before children are allowed to eat them.
• Remind children to only eat treats in original and unopened wrappers.
• Throw away candies if wrappers are faded, have holes or tears, or signs of re-wrapping. When in doubt, throw it out!
• Children younger than 12 years old should always be accompanied by an adult.
• Establish the children’s route and a return time, and only travel in familiar areas.
• Children should not go into a stranger’s home.
• Cross the street at corners using crosswalks and traffic signals.
• Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights for added visibility to drivers.

Have a safe and fun Halloween!