The EPICC Blogger: Halloween Safety

Halloween is an exciting time for everyone, with enjoying the magic of dressing up and eating treats. It is a festivity where children go out for trick-or-treating and where everyone is able to dress-up and get candy. It is also a vulnerable time where risks of hazards and other dangers can creep up on us. Here are some safety tips to make sure that we are secure and protected on Halloween night! (Tips range from young children to adults.)

Tips on Costumes:

Make sure that you and/or your child’s costume fit properly to avoid any potential dangers that could cause hazards (such as falling) to you or those around you.

Keep any accessories that may be representing tools, weapons, jewelry, etc., that they are soft and flexible.

Take caution in wearing a mask because it could make seeing your surroundings and being more aware harder, especially at night.

Preferably wear bright and colorful costumes to be able to be seen at night, and if possible, put reflective tape on your costume or trick-or-treating bag.

Dress appropriately for weather. Fall nights can get very cold.

If your child is trick-or-treating from a distance or apart from you, keep a piece of paper in their shoe or costume of their name, phone number, and address.

Tips on Walking Outside:

Let someone know (friends, parents, etc.) where you will be at all times during your trip.

When walking outside, avoid crossing the street back and forth when going to different houses. Walk on the sidewalk and loop around at the end of the street if you do want to cross.

If there are no sidewalks then walk close to the side of the street facing traffic to see any oncoming vehicles.

Carry a phone and/or flashlight for a source of light and to have contacts in case of emergency.

Make sure to keep electronic devices away to be able to focus on where you are going while walking outside.

Do not go into a stranger’s house.

Do not eat treats while walking outside to avoid choking on them, wait until you get home.

To avoid this, make a snack for you or your child to prevent them from seeking out treats if they get hungry.

Tips for drivers:

Stay alert while driving at night. There are children of all ages walking around and trick-or-treating. Be aware and extra cautious.

Drive slowly for others and your own safety. There are many unforeseeable events that could happen so prepare for any surprises.

Remove any distractions that could cause you to take your attention away from the road, such as cell phones, iPods, etc. It is dangerous and should never be acceptable to have any distractions while driving, and will be more risky especially while driving on Halloween night.