- If they’ll be going unsupervised, it’s important to have an approved route in place. Know where they’re going and know who they’re with.
- Teens should never go trick or treating alone. Make sure they always stay in the group they go out with.
- Set a trick or treating curfew. We’ve all had teenagers show up at our door long after the porch light has gone off, and just as we’re finally getting the sugar-filled crazies settled down for the night. Give your teens an appropriate cutoff time (usually 8:30) as well as a set time you expect them home.
- If your child has a cell phone, encourage them to keep it on them, but store it away for emergencies only. One of the best ways to prevent pedestrian accidents is to put the phones down and keep eyes up.
- Tell teens to never cut across yards or use alleys.
Trick or Treating Safety Tips for Parents
While you probably won’t be going door-to-door with your own pillowcase asking for candy, it’s important for parents to follow some Halloween safety tips as well to ensure a memorable night for everyone.
- Put your phone down and keep your eyes up. If you’re herding a group of trick or treaters, it’s important to have your eyes on them and the roads at all times.
- Inspect all candy and treats before consumption. Throw away any handmade treats like cupcakes or popcorn balls, and sift through for any candy that may have been opened or tampered with.
- Set a meeting place. Even if you’re walking from house-to-house with your kids, it can be easy for one to fall behind. Set a well-lit meeting place on each new street in case someone becomes disoriented.
With just a few little tips, we can all have a safe and fun Halloween!
