Halloween is a fun holiday that brings many different activities, festivals and, of course, trick-or-treating. As much fun as the holiday brings, remember there are important safety precautions to keep in mind during Halloween and share with your little ones to protect them. Keep reading to find out how to be safe on Halloween!
Candy
No surprise that children will be caught-up in the mounds of candy they will get during the trick-or-treating season, but it can put your child at risk. Make sure you review with your kids candy they will and will not be able to eat and that they cannot eat any candy until you have had time to inspect it to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with. This is one of the best ways you can ensure that you child is safe on Halloween!
According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, any candy or treats that are homemade (unless from a family member or friend), unwrapped or appear to have been tampered with should be thrown away immediately.
Costume
Selecting the perfect costume for your kiddo can be challenging, but there is more to think about than whether their friends will love it or not. Avoid costumes that cannot be seen in the dark unless you have trick-or-treating safety flashlights your kids can use throughout the night. Ensure the costume is the proper size or give it a quick hem to make sure you little one won’t be tripping on the bottom of their costume. If the costume is going to need some face paint, remember to purchase non-toxic paint and always test in a small area first. Finally, remember it’s Florida and it could very well be 80 degrees while trick-or-treating. It could also be 65 degrees, so you’ll want a costume that can be versatile for hot or cold weather.
Location
You should always trick-or-treat in well-lit and well-known areas to avoid any unnecessary risks. Or be prepared by having glowsticks or flashlights with you. The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office suggests that trick-or-treating be done in neighborhoods that preferably the children and parents know well. To figure out the best location, the sheriff’s office also recommends checking the locations of sexual offenders or predators in a neighborhood or area. You can go to www.fdle.state.fl.us and search by zip code.
Home Safety
Make sure your home is ready for trick-or-treaters too! Ensure you remove any obstacles in the pathway to your door that could cause trick-or-treaters to trip or fall. If you have pets, make sure you restrain them so they don’t run out the door towards trick-or-treaters. Keep your home well-lit by turning on porch lights, Halloween decoration lights and indoor lights. Remember: if you’re passing out candy, make sure it is individually wrapped. And remember, never allow anyone to come inside your home, for any circumstances.
Trick-or-Treating Must Haves:
- Candy Bag
- Flashlight
- Reflective tape, vest or clothing
- Cellphone
- Emergency Contact Information (incase child gets separated from adult)
- Small first aid kit
- Responsible Adult
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