When candles, cars, and other less-than-scary figures might be dangerous on Halloween, ghosts, vampires, and other fictitious creatures should be the least of your concerns. The truth is, the scariest things out there aren’t what you see in movies or other Halloween specials. That is why we are here today to provide you with the best tips to ensure that Halloween is safe but still fun.
1. Use flame-resistant props.
The term “flame-resistant” must be present on all store-bought Halloween costumes and accessories (masks, beards, wigs) to be safe. Additionally, keep your toddler away from open flames and jack-o-lanterns.
2. Keep an eye on children under the age of 12.
Children under the age of 12 should travel with an adult, and you should label their clothing with your name, address, and phone number in case they become separated.
3. Prepare older children to go out alone.
If your child is at least 12 years old, they can go trick-or-treating on their own as long as they have a cell phone and a method to contact you if they don’t have an older sibling or family member to go with them. Set up a predetermined route and curfew, and instruct them only to knock at houses with exterior lights.
4. Add flashlights and reflective tape.
Adding reflective tape or stickers to their outfit can make your youngster more visible. Please give them a new battery-powered flashlight so they can see where they’re going and drivers can see them.
5. Go over street safety.
Your youngster should be taught to look left, right, and left again before crossing the street for trick-or-treating. They should also keep looking as they cross the road and wait for you at the corner before moving forward. Before letting kids cross a roadway, instruct them to take off their masks. Also, keep a watch out for vehicles entering and exiting driveways.
6. Before eating, examine the candy.
Every candy should be carefully inspected; discard any that are missing their packaging, have rips or holes in it, or otherwise seem off. Hand-wrapped cookies or fruit can be thrown away (unless you trust the giver). Your youngster shouldn’t consume any snacks until you have examined them.
7. While trick-or-treating, avoid sampling any goodies before they return home.
Ensure your child is aware that they cannot taste any snacks until you have had a chance to examine them at home. Eat dinner or a nutritious snack with your child before you leave the house to stave off hunger. They’ll be more tempted to steal treats if they’re hungry.
8. Watch out for ingredients that cause allergies.
Before giving your child any treats, ensure they are safe if they have nut or other food allergies that can trigger an asthma attack.
9. Look out for any things that small children could choke on.
If you have children under four, remove choking hazards such as hard candies, popcorn, small toys, gum, and nuts, from your child’s bag.
10. Don’t let kids under eight carve any pumpkins.
Children must not use carving knives under five. Instead, let kids use a marker to draw the pumpkin’s face.
