Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have a safe holiday,
here are some safety tips.

COSTUMES:

Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.
When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if he stumbles or trips.
Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.

AT HOME:

To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
* Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
* Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
* Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.

TRICK OR TREATING:

A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
* If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
* Remind Trick-or Treaters:
· Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
· Carry a mobile phone for quick communication.
· Only go to homes with a porch light on.
· Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
· If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
· Never cut across yards or use alleys.
· Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
· Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).
· Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
· Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.