Red Cross Halloween Safety - Tips and Tricks

By Hailie Duenkel, Volunteer

Halloween was first celebrated by the Celts on the eve of their harvest festival on November 1, approximately 2,000 years ago. A lot has changed since then, and I am sure Snickers and Batman masks were not a part of their celebration. The American Red Cross has some tips and tricks (not to be confused with tricks and treats) to ensure you and your family have a safe and happy evening.

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Trick-or-Treater Safety
- Plan trick-or-treating routes to keep track of loved ones while out and about.
- An adult should accompany small children, and older children should travel in groups of four or five.

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- Only approach homes with front porch lights on.
- Never go inside to collect candy; only accept treats at the door.
- Walk only on the sidewalks and avoid streets and walking between cars.
- Take a flashlight with you to see and be seen better.
- Be careful around animals who may be out joining in the festivities.

 Welcoming Trick-or-Treaters
- Clear any debris leading from the sidewalk up to the front of your home. 
- Make sure pets are well restrained or not visible to the front door. 
- Turn porch lights on if you intend to welcome trick-or-treaters and make the path well lit.
- If driving, keep an extra close eye on trick-or-treaters crossing the street or walking behind vehicles.
- Inspect candy before passing out to ensure that all wrappers are intact.
- Avoid passing out any handmade treats.

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Costumes and Candy Safety
- Make sure trick-or-treaters are clearly visible: bright colors, flashlights, reflective tape, and glow sticks are all good tactics.
- Avoid masks, as they are hard to see in while trick-or-treating near busy streets.
- Hem costumes to an appropriate length to avoiding tripping. This is also extremely important as costumes are often quite flammable and can catch on candles and open fires.
- An adult should check all the gathered candy before eating. (Discard any candy that has open or damaged wrappers, or candy brands you do not recognize.)

Halloween should be a day filled with magic and excitement. Children around the country look forward to planning their costumes throughout the year, and 2019 is no exception. Follow these tips from the Red Cross to ensure this year is the safest and most joyful Halloween night yet!

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