Halloween is next week and the costumes + candy have been bought…. so what’s next? Safety, of course. I vividly remembered my mom worrying about us when we went trick or treating, even back then. My parents would check every piece of candy to make sure it hadn’t been tampered with. And now times have changed and I think I’m probably even more paranoid than she was. Our family is on our 13th year of trick or treating and I have learned a few things over the years. Halloween is so fun, but can also be dangerous so it’s up to us to keep our children safe so they can enjoy this spooky holiday.
Here are some facts that might shock you a bit:
Children are twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year. Every year I see dozens of kids darting across road, not really stopping to watch for cars. That in combination with adults that have had a couple of drinks are now on the road with our children. It’s a scary thought, I know, but it’s reality. Only 1/3 of parents talk to their kids about safety on Halloween. 12% of 5 years olds are allowed to trick or treat by themselves. Only 18% of parents use reflective tape on their children on Halloween night.
Halloween Safety Tips for Kids
Talk to your children about safety tips for Halloween.
Be sure that they understand how to be aware of your surrounding. It’s probably most effective to bring it up a day or 2 before and then remind them as you head out for the big day.
Wear a well-fitting costume so that it doesn’t drag the ground cause a child to trip.
Young children are so excited and they will break into a run at some point. Make sure their costume won’t ruin their big day.
Make sure eye holes in their masks are large enough for them to see out of.
They will need to see clearly especially as it gets dark.
DO NOT let young children wear shoes that they are not use to
It might seem like a great idea to let your 5 or 6 year daughter wear some fact new high heels that match her costume, but stick with comfy flat shoes for the little one. Nothing can ruin Halloween quicker than a trip to the emergency room with a sprained ankle or broken wrist for falling.
Use reflective tape somewhere on your child’s costume + treat bag.
That way your child can be seen by motorists and you!
Bring a flashlights.
It will get darker sooner than you realize and you’ll want to be able to find your way.
Use small, soft (plastic) and short costume accessories.
Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be made of plastic or soft material with rounded points in case your child does trip they aren’t injured by their own costume.
Use battery-powered lights for Halloween Decorations
When lighting you jack-o-lantern, using battery operated tea lights instead of real candles that way you avoid the risk of fire or a dragging costume catching fire.
Do not let children under the age of 13 trick or treat without an adult.
Trick or Treat in your neighborhood or one you know is safe.
Remind children of STRANGER DANGER
Your kid’s stranger danger awareness might be tested. They might think you can ask them for candy and they give it to you so let’s go inside. Keep a close eye on them at every house. Do NOT go in strangers homes, even if they seem nice.
Do NOT eat homemade treats no matter how delicious they look.
Stay with your group, maybe even assign each child a “buddy”. It’s like an extra set of eyes.
Walk on the SIDEWALKS
Be vigilant watching for strange people that don’t seem like they belong.
Mother’s intuition is like no other. Trust your instinct. And if you see something, say something. It’s better to be safe.
Look out for cars.
Look both ways, twice, before you cross the street. If possible cross the street with children in a corners or crosswalks.
If it’s a large group have multiple adults helping you keep up with the kids.
The more eyes the better especially if the kids start to separate from the group.
Check your kids candy before they eat it for safety reasons and (especially) if your kids have food allergies.
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