Halloween is on a Saturday night this year! Halloween is a favorite time of the year for youth who participate in going from home to home for treats. There are a lot of safety risks when galivanting in a neighborhood, like moving vehicles, children wearing masks, dark clothing, crossing streets and not looking both ways, or even going out without adult supervision. Here are safety tips from Families and Individuals Equitably Rooted in Collective EmpowermentAdvocates website:

Safety First: Tips for Trick-or-Treating

Halloween can be a magical time, but it also comes with safety risks. Here are some ways to keep your family safe:

1. Be Visible and Bright: Children are most at risk as pedestrians on Halloween. Use glow sticks, flashlights, and reflective tape on costumes or bags. Bright colors help drivers see little ghosts and goblins in the dark.

2. Stay Together: Children under 12 should always be accompanied by an adult. Older children should stick with friends, plan a route, and check in regularly. A buddy system can provide extra safety and peace of mind!

3. Choose Safe Costumes: Make sure costumes fit well to prevent tripping hazards. Consider face paint instead of masks to keep vision clear. Avoid sharp props and long trailing fabric. Look for flame-resistant materials when possible.

4. Be Street Smart: Always use crosswalks and well-lit streets. Remind children to look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Stick to sidewalks when possible!

5. Fire Safety: Use battery-operated candles or glow sticks in pumpkins rather than open flames. Keep decorations away from heat sources and ensure smoke alarms are working. Teach children to respect fire hazards.

6. Food Safety: Check candy labels before letting children indulge, especially for children with allergies. Avoid homemade treats from strangers and provide a small meal before trick-or-treating to prevent overeating.

*Halloween Safety and Cultural Awareness Tips for Families — FIERCE Advocates*

After returning home, adults should check the candy to ensure it is intact and has not been compromised; discard any open candy or snack packages. Homemade treats are not advisable to consume, unless you personally know the baker. Read the label for allergens if a child has allergies. 

Have fun but be safe. There are also several local venues who offer Halloween festivities, search online for them. 

Another safety tip is to have your child vaccinated at least two weeks before Halloween. The recommended vaccinations are for flu and other respiratory virus illnesses that are known to be spread during the fall. 

Lastly…tend to your child’s teeth. Teeth should be brushed after consuming sweets. 

Have a safe Halloween!!