Tricks, Treats & Safety Cheats for Halloween!
Shining STARS Abygail, Milaney & Rexlynn all dressed up and ready for some safe Halloween fun!
Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and neighborhood fun, but it’s also important to stay mindful of safety. Whether your family is out trick-or-treating or hosting a Halloween gathering, a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for everyone. Here are some tips from STAR Therapies to make sure your Halloween night is spooktacular and safe!
1. Choose Safe and Comfy Costumes
The right costume makes a big difference in safety and comfort:
Bright Colors and Reflective Materials: Opt for costumes with bright colors or add reflective tape to make your child more visible in the dark.
Check for Trip Hazards: Ensure costumes are the right length to avoid tripping, especially for younger kids.
Avoid Masks: Masks can limit vision, so consider face paint or hats instead. If a mask is a must, make sure it fits well and has adequate visibility.
2. Go Trick-or-Treating in Groups
Trick-or-treating in groups adds an extra layer of safety:
Stick Together: Group trick-or-treating is safer, especially for young children, and helps kids stay visible to drivers.
Set a Buddy System: For older children who want a bit of independence, create a buddy system to make sure no one is left alone.
Use Flashlights: Equip each child with a small flashlight or glow stick to help them see and be seen by others.
3. Inspect Treats Before Enjoying
Excited kids may want to dig into their candy right away, but it’s wise to inspect treats first:
Check for Sealed Wrappers: Only allow your child to eat treats that are sealed and wrapped.
Allergy Awareness: If your child has food allergies, take a few extra minutes to inspect ingredient lists or create a separate “safe” stash.
Save Some for Later: Encourage kids to pick a few treats to enjoy right away, then set aside the rest for later. This keeps things manageable and prevents candy overload!
4. Be Street Smart
Safety on the streets is a priority, especially with Halloween’s increased pedestrian traffic:
Use Crosswalks: Always cross streets at crosswalks and remind kids to look both ways before crossing.
Stay on Sidewalks: Stick to sidewalks or well-lit paths whenever possible to avoid stepping into the road.
Limit Street Crossing: Plan a trick-or-treating route that limits street crossings. Walking down one side of the street and then crossing to the other side helps prevent unnecessary road crossings.
5. Mind Decorations at Home
If you’re handing out candy, make sure your home is safe for little visitors:
Clear Walkways: Remove any obstacles like garden hoses, bikes, or toys from your walkway to prevent tripping.
Use Flameless Candles: Avoid open flames in jack-o'-lanterns by using battery-operated candles or glow sticks for a safe, spooky glow.
Pet Safety: If you have pets, keep them in a secure area to avoid accidental escapes or nervous behavior with strangers at the door.
6. Safety with Face Paint and Makeup
Face paint and makeup are safer alternatives to masks, but a few precautions are helpful:
Test for Allergies: Test a small amount of face paint on your child’s skin before applying it fully to ensure there’s no allergic reaction.
Remove Before Bed: Wash off face paint or makeup as soon as you return home to prevent skin irritation or stains on bedding.
7. Create a Plan for Older Kids
For parents of older children, Halloween may mean letting them explore a bit more independently. Here’s how to stay connected:
Agree on a Route: Plan a safe trick-or-treating route in advance, and make sure your child understands where to go.
Set a Curfew: Decide on a specific time for them to return home and check in periodically through text or phone calls.
Remind of Safety Basics: Reiterate the importance of staying in groups, avoiding dark or isolated areas, and respecting other people's property.
8. Stay Warm and Hydrated
October evenings can be chilly, so make sure your child stays warm and comfortable:
Dress in Layers: Add an extra layer under the costume for warmth, especially if the night is expected to be cold.
Bring Water: Keep a small water bottle on hand to stay hydrated, especially if you’ll be walking long distances.
Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!
With a little planning, Halloween can be a safe and enjoyable evening for the entire family. At STAR Therapies, we’re here to support your family’s health and wellness year-round. Embrace these safety tips and have a spooky, stress-free Halloween filled with laughter, creativity, and wonderful memories!
