Whether you plan on trick-or-treating, passing out candy and trinkets, or even just driving to look at spooky displays, consider these Halloween safety tips and make your holiday less scary.
Trick-or-Treating
- Consider adding reflective tape to a child’s costume or candy bag for greater visibility for motorists.
- Size your child’s costume correctly so they won’t have trip hazards. Don’t forget a jacket in case it’s cold, raining or snowing.
- Leave unnecessary accessories or props at home or in the car, so they don’t become lost or hard to carry. All props should be soft and small enough to avoid causing harm.
- Opt for nontoxic makeup over masks, which can be difficult to see and breathe through.
- Test makeup on a small section of the skin to see if any irritation occurs and remove all makeup before bed to avoid skin irritation.
- Take small flashlights or glow sticks for better visibility when walking.
- Walk on sidewalks when possible, to avoid traffic and lawn decorations. Remind kids to cross the street at corners or crosswalks.
- Lead by example and don’t be distracted by your phone or other electronic devices, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Don’t forget to say thanks for the treats.
- Don’t allow trick-or-treaters to enter strangers’ homes, not even in an entryway.
- If preteens and teens are going without an adult, remind them to travel in well-lit areas, carry their phones, stay with friends and respect their curfew.
- Examine all treats. Inspect the packaging to make sure it has not been damaged or tampered with. Look up allergens and ingredients for candies your child has not eaten before.
Passing Out Candy or Trinkets
- If you’re offering allergen-free candy or non-food treats, let trick-or-treaters know by setting out a teal pumpkin.
- Demonstrate kindness. You may receive trick-or-treaters who are older, non-verbal, have developmental disorders, have physical disabilities or have intellectual disabilities.
- Remove all decorations that could be hazardous to trick-or-treaters.
- Make sure all pets stay inside. Some dogs and cats may become frightened or aggressive with strangers. Do not let children approach dogs or cats, regardless of whether they are with their owners.
- Use battery-operated candles or Jack-O-Lanterns when possible.
Driving
- Be on high alert for trick-or-treaters and other pedestrians.
- Limit distractions like music or hands-free calling. Slow down and scan roadways, medians and curbs. Children may dart into the street unexpectedly.
- Look for children who might be hiding between parked cars, behind bushes, around corners and in shadows.
- If you see an impaired driver, call 911.
Listen to the Oakland County, Michigan Government News and Information Podcast Halloween episode for more safety tips.
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