Halloween is here, with all the delights and anticipation of trick or treating, handloads of sugary treats and the fun of going door to door. You’ve got the costumes by now, and have decorations up in the house and yard. Everything is almost ready as you count down to the big day.
One of the big fitness centers in our community is holding a fun event this year; Trunk or Treat. Families will have a trick or treat tailgating event, in the center’s parking lot, followed by fun activities in the gym. It sounds like a delightful way to have fun and make sure the little ones are safe. Happily, I’m out of that situation, so I can just sit back and watch from afar.
I’ve looked around a few of the popular parenting sites but I don’t see much in the way of safety tips for Halloween. Maybe the assumption is that we’re all familiar with what to do and what not to do. But, I thought I’d offer a few suggestions.
- Accompany trick-or-treaters younger than age 12. Pin a piece of paper with your child’s name, address and phone number inside your child’s pocket in case you get separated. Encourage older kids to trick-or-treat with a group of friends, parents or older siblings. Make sure someone in the group carries a flashlight with fresh batteries. Mayo Clinic
- Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible. CDC
- Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility. American Academy of Pediatrics
- Children shouldn’t snack while they’re out trick-or-treating. Urge your children to wait until they get home and you have had a chance to inspect the contents of their “goody bags.” FDA
And, the basic rules we talk to our children about regularly; don’t go into anyone’s home unless you have an adult with you. Stay with a group and carry a flashlight. Don’t trick or treat in unknown neighborhoods. Make a plan for where you’re going, what time you’ll finish up and what to do in case of an emergency.
If you give some thought to safety precautions early on, then you can enjoy the evening. Have fun!
Image by peasap at Flickr.com
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