Halloween Safety

 

Parents and Adults

  1. Establish a curfew (a return time) for older children.
  2. Know who your children will be with and which route they are taking.
  3. Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks and by placing jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.
  4. Leave your porch light on so children will know if it's OK to visit your home.
  5. Pin a slip of paper with the child's name, address and phone number inside a pocket in case the youngster gets separated from the group.
  6. Keep candles, pumpkins with candles, matches and lighters out of children’s reach.
  7. Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.
  8. Adult partygoers should establish a designated driver.
  9. Do not jump out or scare children that you don't know. Their reaction may cause injuries.

Pumpkins and Decorations

  1. Carve pumpkins on stable, flat surfaces with good lighting.
  2. Have children draw a face on the outside of the pumpkin, then parents should do the cutting. (Keep sharp objects out of reach of children)
  3. Place lighted pumpkins away from curtains and other flammable objects, and do not leave lighted pumpkins unattended by an adult. A flashlight or glowstick inside the pumpkin is preferred if children or pets can come into contact with the pumpkin.
  4. Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.

Halloween Safety Tips & Information
October 31st

Halloween is a festive and fun time of the year for children. Here are some things you can do to help protect your children and ensure Halloween is a safe and happy time:

  1. Children 12 years of age and younger may participate in the Trick-or-Treating activities.
  2. Children may participate in the traditional Trick-or-Treat door-to-door activities until 8:00 p.m. Never approach a house that has its lights off, unattended dogs, or clearly posted as no trespassing.
  3. Make sure children are accompanied by an adult or a responsible teenager when they go door-to-door. Go with them yourself if you can. Never allow children to go alone.
  4. Take your children to trick or treat in their own neighborhood or in neighborhoods of family or friends and along well-lit streets. They should always carry a flashlight.
  5. Tell your children to use the sidewalks, where possible. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the street facing cars. Cross at corners and safe areas.
  6. Never cut across yards or use alleys.
  7. Remind children to look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
  8. Go only to well-lit houses and remain outside.
  9. Once you knock on the door or ring the bell, take four or more steps back until you are able to determine your safety.
  10. Tell your children not to enter a stranger's house or accept a ride from a stranger.
  11. Instruct children never to eat anything until they are home and the treats have been examined by an adult.
  12. If you encounter suspicious or illegal activities, please note the location and description of the individuals involved for the police.