Getting ready for Halloween?
Use the tips and checklists below for a stress free and fun night!
Whether you’re a parent preparing to take little ones trick-or-treating or a homeowner welcoming costumed visitors, a bit of planning goes a long way in making the night safe and enjoyable.
Use these simple checklists to ensure you’re set for a fun-filled Halloween with safety in mind.
Costumes
- Check length of costumes
- Make sure masks are fitted correctly so that children can see.
- Dress children in comfortable shoes for walking.
Purchase
- Glow Sticks
- Safety Pins
- Wet Wipes
- Hand Sanitizer
- Water bottles
- Hair Ties or rubber bands
- Put all in a container in the car
Trick-or-Treating Safety
- Always accompany younger children; for older kids, set a curfew and route.
- Remind kids to use sidewalks and cross at designated crosswalks.
- Carry a flashlight or use phone flashlights to stay visible.
- Inspect candy at home and discard any opened or unwrapped treats.
Stranger Safety, We think these things go without saying, but this is a great time for an extra family discussion.
- Remind children never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.
- Encourage kids to only approach well-lit homes.
- Set clear rules for where kids can go, especially if they’re out with friends.
Tips for Home Owners
Front Yard and Walkway Prep
- Clear walkways of obstacles like hoses, decorations, or loose stones.
- Use flameless candles or string lights to keep the area well-lit.
- Secure pets indoors to prevent them from getting loose or scaring trick-or-treaters.
Candy and Treat Safety
- Hand out store-bought, individually wrapped candy for hygiene and safety.
- Consider offering some diabetic candy option for children with diabetes
- Consider putting a sign out so that parents know that you have this option.
To Buy
- Walkway lights
- Candy
- Sugar free candy
Decorations
- Avoid decorations that could pose a tripping hazard, especially on walkways.
- Use battery-powered lights in pumpkins instead of open-flame candles.
- Turn off porch lights when you are out of candy.
- Enjoy kids of ALL ages who are out enjoying this holiday. Remember, growing up is hard.