Halloween is quickly approaching and if your kids are like mine they are counting down the days. Many of us are making preparations for costumes, parties and a night of trick-or-treating. Children are usually the most excited about the holiday and this weekend may be a good time to review some safety rules with the family. Taking time to review safety guidelines for this Halloween will ensure that every one has a safe and fun filled night.

1.Safety in numbers

There is safety in numbers anytime you venture out of your home.

-Parents should accompany small children on their candy gathering adventure.
-Remember to go with children to the doors of homes you are unfamiliar with.
-Pin a small piece of paper to the inside of your child’s costume with their name and phone number in case you get separated.
-Choose to stay in familiar neighborhoods close to home.

Older children that parents trust to send out on their own should also be encouraged to be safe as well. These tips may be helpful when sending them out on their own.

– Have children go and stay with a group of friends.
Review safety rules with them and their friends so they know what is expected.
Plan a route that the children may travel.
Give older children a curfew.
Walk in well lit areas and never take shortcuts through isolated dark areas.

Stranger Danger

It important to review stranger danger with children. Halloween night seems like a party everywhere and a little reminder of these tips can help our children stay safe.

-Don’t enter homes of anyone you don’t know.
-Stay away from vehicles.
-Reinforce that it’s ok to yell and draw attention to themselves if someone they grabs them or makes them feel threatened.

Costume Safety

Costumes are one of the most exciting things about Halloween. Children are able to pretend and be creative. They are able to express their interest and creativity with their choices of costumes. As we can let our children be creative we can also help them to make sure their costume are safe.

-Wearing reflective clothing , glow stick or carry a flashlight will help them to be visible to cars and others out in the night.
-Make sure costumes fit well.
-Avoid facial mask if possible, make sure they can see and breath easily if they do wear mask.
-Limit accessories such as sharply pointed props, wands, swords and knives.
-Make sure costumes are flame resistant.

5.Safety at home

Keeping things safe around our homes is just as important as being safe when we go out. Making it a pleasant experience for all those celebrating Halloween who may come to our doors.

-Keep lights around the home on so the area is well lit.
-Make sure pets are under control, away from your front door and in a safe place.
-Give out well wrapped candy or alternatives such as stickers pencils or other small alternatives to sugar.

Alternatives to Trick or Treating

Trick or Treating may be the traditional way to celebrate Halloween but there are also may other ways children and families can enjoy the holiday. Many communities and schools sponsor activities where families can safely celebrate. Choose to attend a party or host one of your own and celebrate with your friends.

Using these tips to plan a safe and fun Halloween will make it a holiday to look forward to. Do you have tips of your own? Please share them in the comments. Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!