Trick-or-Treating Safety: From Well-Lit Areas to Candy Checks

Are you planning to go trick-or-treating with you children this year? Here are some tips that will help you have a safe and enjoyable Halloween. First of all, try to get started early to avoid getting caught in the traffic congestion. Never let your child go trick-or-treating by themselves. Instead, ask a group of parents to join you. Always choose a well-lit neighborhood with sidewalks.

Don't forget to bring a couple flashlights and extra batteries, just in case you need them. Be sure you child's costume has light colors or reflective safety strips stuck on their costume. You may want to purchase some glow in the dark sticks, so your child's costume is extremely visible. Some places sell Halloween jewelry that lights up or blinks for added safety

Encourage your child to remove their mask, when they are walking on the sidewalk between houses. Some masks will cause children to trip or get hurt, because they obstruct their entire view. Constantly, instruct your child not to cross the street, until you tell them it is okay to cross. Never cut through a dark alley or allow your child to wander ahead of the group.

Always check your child's candy, before they eat it or trade with other children. This way, you can be sure the candy is safe for them to eat or trade with others. Look for open packages and puncture marks, when you check out the candy. If something doesn't look right, don't take any chances and throw it away. But, if you find any candy that has been tainted with, immediately call the police and report it.

Watch out for cars that are driving around the neighborhood or following a group of kids. You will have a night to remember, as long as you stay aware of your personal surroundings. Be alert and lookout for people that seem suspicious or out of place. Be sure to tell the other parents and warn the children to stay away. If necessary, leave the neighborhood and find a safer one to explore.