Safety First on Halloween Night!

As a mother of a young boy, I’m well aware of the worries that we as parents face when our kids head out to trick or treat. Lately, the news has been flooded with even more hazards for us to think about. Clowns, reckless driving… Halloween is supposed to be fun! I can remember trick or treating as a kid, happy and unaware that my folks must have been mentally preparing for any dangers that potentially awaited.

In prepping for Halloween this year (between the party planning and the busy fall real estate market), I’ve come across several really informative articles related to safe trick or treating practices. I feel like even in our small community, it’s important to pay attention to the golden rule of safety first! As a reminder, I’ve put together my top 10 safety list. Let me know if you have anything in your routine that I should add!

Dana’s Top Ten Safety Tips for Trick or Treating

1. Plan your route – Have a mapped out route and stick to it. If older kids are trick or treating, have a copy of their planned route and check-in points.
2. Wear comfortable shoes – Kids get tired easily, especially when walking entire neighborhoods (believe me, I know.) Comfy shoes make a world of difference!
3. Wear something bright and reflective – Being a vampire or witch is really cool, but make sure there’s a reflective strip or glow stick somewhere on your child so they’re visible at night.
4. Never go alone – Never. Go. Alone. The buddy system is tried and true!
5. Don’t go inside – Trick or treating doesn’t involve going inside the home. Always make sure the kiddos know to say “No” if a stranger invites them inside.
6. Take a first aid kit – Band-aids come in handy whenever kids are involved. The liquid band-aid is especially good for painted faces.
7. No shortcuts allowed – Even if there’s an ally that could cut out some time, take the main streets when walking the neighborhood.
8. Have regular check-in times (for older kids) – Be sure your kids let you know where they’re going and what time they will call to check in during their trip.
9. Keep your home well-lit – If you’re expecting trick or treaters, keep the porch light on. Parents look for homes that are bright and inviting.
10. Check the treats! – Before letting the kids dive in, carefully check all of the candy for tears in the wrappers or strange looking treats.

In addition to the tips above, I found an awesome resource at the Room For Improvements catalog. Download their Trick or Treat checklist for items you should take along on Halloween night.

Not from the area? Come see me for a free map of the local neighborhoods that are hot spots for trick or treaters. And check out the trick or treating down Broad Street on Halloween evening where local merchants will be handing out candy and other goodies!