KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
As you get ready for Halloween and all the fun you'll have, don't forget that safety is an important part to enjoying this festive holiday. Below are some tips to help keep you and yours safe.
- Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure they are short enough to prevent tripping, especially important for younger children.
- Consider adding reflective tape to the costumes and treat bags for additional visibility.
- Masks can block and restrict children's sight. There are many hypoallergenic and non-toxic makeup choices available.
- Make sure all costumes and accessories are flame retardant.
- Provide flashlights with fresh batteries for trick-or-treaters and their escorts.
- Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards from your porch and front yard. Hoses, flower pots and low hanging branches can be dangerous for children rushing from house to house.
- Plan and review with your children the route they will take and what time they are expected to be home.
- Do not allow bikes, rollerblades, or skateboards.
- Segregate the pets and prepare them for a night with unfamiliar sights and sounds.
- Only trick-or-treat on well lit streets and at houses with porch lights on.
- All children should be accompanied by a parent or a responsible adult.
- Only cross the street at the crosswalk. Watch out for cars, don't assume you are seen by all drivers.
- Stay in a group, walk slowly and always communicate where you are going.
- Even though tampering is rare, no treats should be eaten before an adult has checked them out.
- Tell children to never enter a strange home or car.
- Portion out the treats to last for several days, no tummy aches from too much candy.
With a little planning and preparation everyone can have a safe and fun filled Halloween.
Have a Boo-tastic time!
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
