The only thing more important than wearing the perfect Halloween Costume and getting the most candy this Halloween is doing it safely.  There are many things that trick or treaters, parents and neighbors can do to make sure every one has a safe and fun Halloween. This 3 part blog will highlight the most important tips to keep you safe.

For trick or treaters, before you leave the house make sure:

• You have comfortable shoes because you may be walking a long distance. Comfort comes first, even if they don’t match with your costume
• Check your costume for pieces that drag, they can get caught, snagged or stepped on.
• Dress warm enough. Either wear a jacket or dress in layers of long underwear under your costume.
• If you have a cell phone, make sure it’s charged and easily accessible. You don’t want to be fishing through your candy bag if you need your phone in a hurry. Have your home number set on speed dial.

If you will be trick or treating at night:

• Carry a flashlight.
• Put reflective tape on your costume or shoes.
• Wear a watch you can read in the dark.
• If possible, wear a glow stick or light-up necklace. 

Once you are out and about:

• Walk, don’t run.
• Stay on sidewalks.
• Obey traffic signals.
• Stay in familiar neighborhoods.
• Don’t cut across yards or driveways.
• (If no sidewalk) walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Don’t trick or treat alone. Stay with a minimum or one other person who knows the neighborhood.

Other tips to remember:

• Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.
• Carry only flexible knives, swords or other props.
• Don’t wave props around because you may accidently hurt someone.
• Approach only houses that are lit.
• Stay away from and don’t pet animals you don’t know.
• Don’t eat any candy until you get home.
• Never, ever go into a stranger’s house no matter what!
• Know your curfew and give yourself plenty of time to get home.

These tips really boil down to common sense. Use your noodle. If it feels wrong then trust your instincts. Know when to call for help and when to go home.

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s blog: Halloween Safety Tips Par II - Parent’s Tips