Thursday, October 14, 2010

Safety Tips for Halloween

COSTUME
  • When you purchase costume make sure there are NO small parts for children to put in their mouth.
  • Labels should read FLAME RESISTANT.
  • If children will be out after dark include reflective tape to their costume or purchase bright color garment.
  • Shoes should fit to avoid tripping.
  • Mask may cause visibility problems consider using non-toxic make up to paint face or contact a professional face painter http://www.sandysland.com/.
  • If costume includes accessories make sure they do not have sharp edge or points, for example, canes, swords or wand, this will avoid injury if child trips.
  • Garment should fit properly to avoid slip and falls.
TRICK-OR-TREAT WALK
  • One or two adults should accompany Trick-or-Treat walkers.
  • Children should travel in a group.
  • A Plan should be in place in advance of route.
  • Adults and even that child should have a fully charged cell phone.
  • Because motorist may have trouble seeing, cross at traffic light and or stop signs.
  • If there is any suspicion notify law enforcement immediately.
  • Never travel through alleys or cut across yards.
  • Only go to well lit homes.
  • NEVER enter a home or vehicle to receive treats.
  • Remain on well-lit streets.
  • Carry Flash Light with FRESH batteries.
  • Children should know how to dial 911.
HOME OWNERS RESPONSIBILITY
  • Clean leaves or debris from porch, walk-way and side walk.
  • Remove garden tools, lawn decoration, toys and bikes from porch/path way to home.
  • Make sure porch light are on and that all lights are operating around the home.
  • Pets should be in the house or restrained in backyard.
 PARENTS
  • Make sure children have had a good meal before they go Trick-or-Treating to cut down on urge to eat candy while they walk.
  • Consider a home party, harvest fest, ancestors night, or church hop (children will go to park-n-lot and visit each car (church members, family and friends) to get treats from familiar people).
  • Take candy to police station to get check for metal.
  • Don't allow children to eat candy if package is opened.
  • Visit local stores as Trick-or -Treat route.
  • Small children should never carve a pumpkin. Have them to draw the design only and the adult do the carving.
  • Pumpkins with candles inside should never sit next to any fabric or paper (easy flammable material). The surface should be flat and the pumpkin should always be monitored when lit.