Red Cross: Tips for Risk-Free Trick-or-Treating
Red Cross offers a series of useful tips for parents to ensure the safety of children during Halloween festivities
Halloween is fast approaching, and little superheroes, cartoon and TV show characters are about to invade neighborhoods in search of treats. It is a festive time eagerly anticipated by little ones, but it is also an occasion when it is crucial to pay attention to safety. Little ones roaming the streets in search of treats need to be visible and be able to see clearly around them. Red Cross publishes a list of useful tips to follow to celebrate Halloween safely:
- Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen. Use face makeup instead of masks that can make it difficult to see. Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight to light the way. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. If possible, have everyone wear light-colored clothing;
- Use flame-resistant costumes;
- When choosing costumes, avoid long, draggy fabrics;
- Make sure adults know where children are going. A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children from door to door;
- Be cautious with animals, especially dogs;
- Walk, don’t run;
- Visit only houses with a light on the porch. Accept treats at the door and never enter;
- Walk only on sidewalks, not in the street. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the edge of the roadway, facing traffic. Look in both directions before crossing the street and cross only at the corner. Do not cross between parked cars and do not cross in yards or alleys;
- Drivers: pay close attention because children may forget to look in both directions before crossing;
- An adult should check all candy before eating it. Be sure to remove loose candy, open packages and eliminate any choking hazards. Discard any items with brand names you are not familiar with.
If you plan to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home, follow these safety measures:
- Illuminate the area well so little visitors can see;
- Sweep leaves from sidewalks and steps. Clear the porch or yard of obstacles that someone might trip over.
Halloween is a fun and lighthearted holiday, but it is important not to forget the precautions needed to ensure the safety of little ones. By following these simple tips, you can ensure a fun and risk-free experience for your children. And don’t forget to download the free American Red Cross First Aid app for instant access to helpful tips in case of an emergency.
Happy Halloween to all and. watch out for the treats!