Halloween Safety Tips

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now able to return to some normalcy. This Halloween, kids are able to get dressed up in their favourite characters and collect candy from their neighbourhood once again. Before kids and their parents head out for a night of sweet fun, it is important to go over our highly recommended Halloween safety tips, as there are many hazards to be aware of and look out for.

These Halloween safety tips are to ensure that you have a safe and spooktacular night:

1. When carving pumpkins, do not let children use sharp carving tools. We recommend the children draw out the design of their choosing and have an adult carve the pumpkin out. There are also special carving kits for children that can be used.
2. Ensure that your kids’ costumes fit well. Oversized costumes can drag on the ground and cause your child to trip and fall.
3. Avoid wearing costumes with masks, as it limits your vision, especially in the dark.
4. Plan your trick-or-treat route ahead of time and make sure your children are familiar with it as well. The route should be in a safe area and with the least amount of street crossings.
5. We do not recommend children go trick or treating on their own. Even older children are recommended to have adult supervision. In the case your children are going in groups, ensure it's in a group of at least 3-5 children.
6. Trick-or-treaters should carry a flashlight to increase their visibility to motorists and to also be aware of any uneven surfaces, holes in the ground and debris.
7. Drive slowly and with caution in residential areas.
8. Always look both ways before you cross any roads.
9. Place all Jack-O-Lanterns in a safe place, to avoid anyone tripping over it.
10. Do not go to homes without lights on.
11. Add reflective tape to your costume to increase your visibility to motorists.
12. Always stay on the sidewalk.
13. Always safely check all the candy and chocolate your children bring home. Throw out any candy or chocolate that is homemade, opened, or unwrapped.

Halloween has the tendency to bring out the inner child in everyone. It allows you to dress up as any character you would like, eat all your favourite candies and see a parade of cute, scary and hilarious costumes all over the neighbourhood. Keeping the above Halloween safety tips in mind will ensure that everyone is able to enjoy their Halloween night and return home safe and sound.