Every October 31, children all over go door to door, trick-or-treating. It is very important to take safety precautions and prepare before allowing your children to go out.
Before your children go trick or treating, please ensure the following things:
- All children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult or someone who will be responsible for them.
- Talk to your children about where they may go. Tell them what areas are off limits. Set boundaries of where they are allowed to go. Drive the route with them earlier that day or the night before so there is no confusion.
- Make sure your children know to only stop at well-lit homes. If a house is dark and the porch light is off, tell them to skip the home and go on.
- Decide when your children will leave and what time they are expected to return home. Make sure they have a watch.
- Tell your children to bring all candy home for your inspection before they eat any. Insepect the candy when they return. Do not allow them to eat any home baked goods, or open candy.
- Review safety guidelines on talking to strangers, accepting rides from strangers and entering strangers’ homes. Remind them these rules are still in place on Halloween.
- Be sure your children have reflectors on their costume and/or a flashlight so they can easily be seen. One option is to have them carry a glow-in-the dark bag to carry candy.
- If it is cold, be sure your childrens’ costumes can keep them warm. Make sure they wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Be sure their costumes are far enough from the ground to prevent tripping.
Source: The National Safety Council
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA