Keeping Kids Safe on Halloween

  • Published
  • By Will Harding
  • 17th Training Wing Safety
GOODFELLOW AFB, Texas --     Halloween is a cherished tradition, but the excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful. There is no real "trick" to making Halloween a real treat for the entire family. The major dangers are not from witches or spirits, but rather from falls and pedestrian/car crashes. Both children and adults need to think about safety on this annual day of make-believe.

   The National Safety Council urges motorists to be especially alert on Halloween. Watch for children darting out from between parked cars Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully. When driving at twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.

   Parents should plan ahead before sending your kids out this Halloween. Tragedy can be averted by following these 15 simple rules.

1. Check costume label to ensure it is fire retardant.
2. Young children should never go trick-or-treating without an adult.
3. Older children should never trick-or-treat alone. Have at least 2 friends along and stay together.
4. Plan the route and make sure the family knows what it is and sticks to it.
5. Children should wait until they get home and have their parents check the candy before eating it.
6. Children should be very cautious of strangers.
7. Treats should only be accepted at the door. Never go inside the house.
8. Don't play near lit jack-o-lanterns.
9. Visit only houses where the lights are on.
10. Walk, don't run.
11. Walk on sidewalks and driveways. Stay out of the street.
12. Cross the street only at the corner or in a crosswalk.
13. Take a cell phone.
14. Wear a watch, so you can keep track of the time.
15. Be Seen! Carry a flashlight, use bright colors, and add reflective tape or tags to clothing and bags!