Halloween Tips & Tricks >Safety

Check out some of these valuable safety tips to help make sure that you and your family have a Happy Halloween!

General Safety
Masks should not be worn while walking from house to house, crossing a street, driveway or alley. Always make sure the mask fits securely and that eyeholes allow for unhindered visibility. Give children cell phones or money for payphones in the event of an emergency. Be sure kids know their home phone number and how to call 911, if necessary. Also be sure that they are wearing watches that easily show the time - even in the dark. Keep kids out of unfamiliar neighborhoods and away from homes that are not lit for trick-or-treaters. Costumes should be tried on and adjusted to ensure a proper fit and to avoid tripping or falling. Tell children to bring back all treats so you can inspect them for tampering. Be sure to throw out any candy that is not sealed or securely wrapped. Check to make sure that flashlights or lanterns have fresh new batteries before trick-or-treaters head out with them. Also consider adding reflective tape to treat buckets and costumes.
Pet Safety
As much as you'd like to give your pet a Halloween treat too, remember that chocolate is deadly to them! Stick with actual pet treats, like bones, cat treats or even pet toys. Keep in mind that candy wrappers and tin foil can get stuck in pets' digestive tracts and could make them sick or even worse. Be sure to throw away all wrappers in a closed trash can. Never leave lighted jack o' lanterns and candles unattended! Curious cats and excited pups can accidentally knock them over or swing their tails into them, not only potentially starting a fire, but also burning your pet. If you're having an indoor party or even just opening your door to trick-or-treaters, be sure that pets are placed in a room where they are safe and separated from the noise and commotion. They tend to get nervous, causing even the friendliest pet to react in a way that they normally wouldn't. Check on them periodically throughout the night to make sure that they aren't scared and reassure them that everything is alright.
Home Safety
Keep your home safe for trick-or-treaters and be sure to remove from your porch, front steps or yard any objects that could be tripped over, such as garden hoses, lawn decorations or children's toys. Be sure to check outdoor lights, making sure the exterior of your home is well lit and that burned out bulbs are replaced. Sweep up wet leaves and remove them from your front steps and walkways. Remember fire safety when decorating and be sure not to overload electrical outlets or block exit doors. Never leave a lighted candle or jack o' lantern unattended!