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7 Safety Tips to Ensure Only Good Surprises This Halloween

October 12, 2023

Halloween preparation is in full swing at our house. Costumes are planned, decorations are placed, and now we’re on to the fun part–the treats! There are so many great choices as I walk through the store, including many of our favorites. Gotta love those Snickers, Milky Ways, and Reese's.

Speaking of treats, do your kids beg to eat treats right away as they trick-or-treat through the neighborhood? One of the most important safety tips that I will be reminding my kids about is to wait to eat treats until we get home and can check to make sure they are safe to enjoy. We don’t need any unwanted surprises!

While we’re talking about surprises, here are some great tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics to help keep away unwanted surprises this Halloween.

#1 Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

#2 Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. 

#3 A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.

#4 Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

#5 Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.

#6  Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.

#7  Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.