Ever think about how strange some of our Halloween traditions are? The biggest one probably being that we encourage kids to ask strangers for candy. But, your little trick-or-treaters are undoubtedly more concerned about the candy they will collect than their safety. So, check out these Halloween safety tips to ensure your little ghosts and goblins have a fun (and safe) night.
1. The Perfect Costume = the right length + easy to see!
The number one, most important Halloween safety tip: make sure other drivers can see your child! If your trick-or-treater has their heart set on being a stealthy ninja, deck out their costume with glow sticks and fun, light-up necklaces. Let them pick out their glow sticks and necklaces at the store. This can help them get excited about the idea and more likely to wear them.
2. Do a Quick Skin Test of Any Costume Makeup or Face Paint
No need to completely paint up their face, just apply a small amount of the makeup to their skin and wait to see if any redness or skin irritation appears. It’s better to find out if their butterfly princess makeup is going to turn them into a zombie princess before you’re out in the crowded streets trying to enjoy Halloween.
3. Explain the Spooky Sights They May See
For young children, it will be important to explain what they may see before you head out for trick-or-treating. Explain that the costumes look scary but are just kids in masks. You can also equip them with some coping strategies, such as:
Practice reciting a line they can say in their head like "Everything is okay, it's just pretend"
Bring along their favorite toy or blanket they can hold if they get scared
Make it easy for them to find you throughout the night if they want to leave
This will help keep them calm so you can focus on other child safety tasks.
4. Stay Safe, Stay Outside
Remind your trick-or-treaters that they should never enter a stranger's house to get Halloween Candy. Even if they can see the candy bowl or other kids go in the house, make sure they know to stay outside.
5. Keep Watch for Choking Hazards
Keep children’s trick-or-treating bags with you rather than letting them snack while you drive. This way you can check their bag for candy or toys that may pose as a choking hazard before they put it in their mouth.
Continue reading at Auto-Owners Insurance here.
Comments