HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
Steveston is a great community and Halloween trick-or-treating is very popular. Homeowners have lots of fun decorating for the kids and handing out candy treats to the costumed kids as the parents wait near by. Here are some tips to ensure that kids are safe when coming to your door:
| Yard |
Get prepared for Trick-or-Treaters by clearing your pathway and yard. Put away the hose, garden tools and cords. Trim back bushes that are encroaching the sidewalk and that might snag on costumes or poke a kid in the eye.
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| Lights |
Turn on your exterior lights and light up the pathway to your door. Remember kids are wearing awkward costumes and masks and may easily trip or fall in the excitement. Avoid cords.
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| Dogs |
Dogs can scare kids. Kids in costumes will scare dogs. Keep your dog away from kids when they come to the door.
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| Candles |
Don't leave burning candles outside where they can might get knocked over.
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| Not Home |
Tell your kids to avoid homes where the lights are off. Lights off mean that no one is home or at least no one is participating. It is dangerous to approach dark homes and a waste of time when no one answers.
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| Candy |
Tell your kid not to eat anything until you have checked it out at home. Give your kid a good dinner before they go out so they are not tempted.
Consider alternatives to candy - tattoos, toys, stickers ... |
| The Big Event |
Talk to your kid before you go out and explain what the plan is so they are not tempted to run from house to house and across the street.
They must be told never to go inside a house.
Make sure your kid's costume is not dragging on the ground as a trip hazard.
Check to ensure your kid can see out of a mask or wig or hat.
Dress the kids in warm enough clothes (either under the costume or a coat over top)
Supply a treat bag that is big enough to collect the candy and easy to open and carry.
Have your kid carry a light and something reflective so that they can be seen in the dark.
Accompany your kid out and if your older kid is out without you, make sure they know where you are and how to reach an adult.
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