From the American Red Cross
Halloween is coming and the streets and sidewalks will be full of tiny ghosts and goblins, super heroes and princesses. Even vampires and witches need to know how to celebrate safely and the American Red Cross has steps people can follow to have a safe Halloween.
“We want everyone to enjoy this fun-filled night,” said Nicole Bartman, Executive Director of the Red Cross serving Western Kansas. “The kids are excited, but first parents need to make sure their kids know what to do in order to have fun and stay safe.”
COSTUME SAFETY
Whether the little one wants to be a ghost, a princess or a superhero, parents can help keep them safe by following some costume advice:
Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags.
Have everyone wear light-colored clothing to be seen.
Use flame-resistant costumes.
Use face makeup instead of masks, which can cover your eyes and make it hard to see.
SAFE TRICK-OR-TREATING
To maximize safety, plan the route ahead of time. Make sure adults know where children are going. If the children are young, a parent or responsible adult should accompany them as they make their way around the neighborhood. Other safety tips to follow include:
Make sure trick-or-treaters have a flashlight to see where they are going and be seen by drivers.
Visit only the homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door—never go inside.
Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the edge of the roadway, facing traffic.
Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner.
Don’t cut across yards or use alleys. Don’t cross between parked cars.
It’s not only vampires and monsters people have to look out for. Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
WELCOMING THE KIDS If someone is manning the candy giveaway at their house, they can make sure it’s a fun night for all by doing the following:
Make sure the outdoor lights are on.
Sweep leaves from the sidewalks and steps.
Clear the porch or front yard of any obstacles that a child could trip over.
Restrain the pets.
Use a glow stick instead of a candle in the jack-o-lantern to avoid a fire hazard.
Use extra caution if driving. The youngsters are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.