Planning on taking your little ones trick-or-treating this Halloween? Perhaps your child has reached an age where they’re ready to go with a group of friends. Either way, there are a few safety measures and precautions to bear in mind. To keep your family safe and ensure everyone has fun, here’s what you need to know this Halloween!
For Parents:
● When decorating your home, make sure to keep your front path clear of obstacles for the little trick-or-treaters that will be visiting!
● Instead of candles, which can pose a fire hazard, consider lighting your pumpkins with battery-operated candles or even coloured glow sticks for an eerie glow!
● When helping your child choose their costume, make sure it is properly fitted and not too long so they won’t trip over it.
● Masks can restrict a child’s vision. As an alternative, consider using non-toxic face paint, or cutting the eye holes of the mask bigger for better visibility.
● Dress your child for the weather! Halloween is often rather chilly and your child will be spending a lot of time outdoors. Put warm layers underneath their costume, or choose a costume that requires a hat and gloves!
● Choose costume props that are soft or flexible and won’t pose a safety hazard to your child or others (such as a rubber sword instead of a hard plastic one).
● Glow sticks or reflective tape make great additions to a costume to heighten your little one’s visibility in the dark.
For Children:
● Travel in groups! There should always be at least three people in your group at all times.
● Never go inside a stranger’s house or vehicle. Only visit homes that are well lit.
● Take a flashlight with you and a cell phone, if possible.
● Before you set out, confirm your route with your parents so they know where you will be going.
● Stick to one side of the street, rather than criss-crossing back and forth. Cover one side of the street first, then safely cross the road to come back down the other side.
● Stick to the sidewalk and always be aware of your surroundings. If there is no sidewalk, walk along the left-hand side of the road facing traffic so you can see any cars coming.
● As tempting as it can be, save all your treats until you get home. A parent should always look over your candy before you eat it.
● If you have any allergies, make sure to tell the person giving out the candy.
However you and your family are spending this Halloween, these tips should ensure your safety and enjoyment! From the Royal LePage Performance Realty family, we hope you have a very Happy Halloween!
