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Halloween can be a very enjoyable time for
kids and adults if
"trick-or-treating" is done
sensibly. However, parents and children should
always remember basic rules of safety and be
aware that there are some people who tend to
go too far with pranks and mischief. Don't let
those people ruin your fun. Trick-or-treating
is for kids, so keep these guidelines in mind.
A responsible adult or teenager should be with
the kids. Kids should go out in groups Try
to limit the groups to four or five members if
possible, and know who is in each group. If a
child thinks he or she is too old to be
accompanied by an adult or teenager, he or she
is probably too old to be trick-or-treating.
Organized parties are one possible alternative
to trick-or-treating for older kids (younger
children may enjoy this activity, also.)
COSTUMES
Halloween costumes come in
many shapes, sizes and styles. Discuss what
type you or your child will be wearing, then
whether you buy it or make it, incorporate
safety into it. Here are some aspects to think
about:
● Is it too binding, or does it allow
freedom of movement?
● Is the footwear too big? This could
cause tripping, stumbling, ankle twisting,
etc. Your regular street shoes would be best.
● Some costumes have capes, hoods,
and/or attachments which could snag, trip or
otherwise cause problems.
● Anything that is part of the costume,
such as swords etc., should be made from
flexible material and have a definite
appearance of being imitations that are not
capable of harm.
● Rather than using a mask that could
block vision, use face paints, or makeup.
● Costumes should be made of white or
light colored materials or have some type of
reflective tape, patches, or strips attached.
Fire retardant materials are also recommended.
TIPS FOR KIDS
● One person in each
group should carry a flashlight, and
preferably each member should carry one. If
you carry a flashlight, use it.
● Never eat anything until after you are
home and the treats have been examined.
● Carry trick-or-treating bags or
containers that have handles. This allows free
movement of arms.
● Stay in your own neighborhood and only
go to houses which have porch lights turned
on.
● Walk, don't run.
● Stay on sidewalks and don't cut
through yards.
● Try to avoid dark areas and stay in
lighted areas.
● Keep your distance from strangers.
● Look both ways before crossing
streets.
● Don't go into a stranger's house.
TIPS FOR ADULTS
● Cut and wash fruit before eating.
Throw away anything unwrapped. Check wrappers
of commercial treats for signs of tampering.
Notify police if harmful items are found.
Encourage your kids to eat before going
trick-or-treating to help them avoid the
temptation of snacking on their treats before
you check them. Do not invite
trick-or-treaters into your residence.
● Do not leave your home unattended on
Halloween night.
● Do leave your porch light on as a
signal to children that it is O.K. to
trick-or-treat at your residence.
● Keep your pets inside on Halloween
night.
● Know the route your children intend to
take and impress on them the importance of
following it.
● Report suspicious activities such as
mischief, bullies or trouble makers to the
police.
Have a fun and safe Halloween!
Information taken from: "A
Word to the Wise About Halloween Safety"
Irving Police Department Community Services
Section, Crime Prevention Unit
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