CULLMAN, Ala. – Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year, full of fun costumes, thrilling events and activities, and delicious candy. While it’s essential to have fun and enjoy the holiday, it’s also important to stay safe.
Trick-or-treating safety
For those who will be trick-or-treating or welcoming trick-or-treaters:
A responsible adult should accompany young children at all times while making rounds. If older children are going alone, plan a route and a specific time for them to come home. Teach children never to enter a stranger’s home or car, and instruct them to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and to stay with their friends. A buddy system is always a good option, even for older kids.
Tell children not to eat any candy until an adult has had a chance to check it for potential food allergies or other hazards. Parents should teach children not to accept or eat treats that aren’t commercially wrapped. Homemade baked goods should be avoided unless they’re from someone you know and trust. Throw away any wrapped candies with an unusual appearance, such as discoloration, pinholes or tears in the wrappers.
Adding a strip of reflective tape to costumes and bags, and having kids carry glow sticks or flashlights, will greatly increase visibility. When crossing the street, try to use well-lit areas, crosswalks or intersections, and always look both ways. Keep electronic devices down and eyes up while walking. If there are no sidewalks, always walk facing traffic and try to stay as far to the left as possible, or walk in yards.
If you plan to welcome trick-or-treaters to your doorstep this year, make sure outdoor lights are on and working correctly so they know your home is stop friendly and their path is well lit. Secure any items of significant value you may have outside or any objects that could potentially trip someone. Put up pets so they do not jump, bite or frighten visitors.
Costume safety for young children
What’s Halloween without a good costume? While dressing up is part of the fun, make sure your young one’s costume doesn’t prevent them or others from having a great time.
Ensure costumes fit well to prevent tripping or catching on objects. Avoid long or sharp swords, sticks or canes that could cause injury if a child falls or bumps into another. Before applying costume makeup, test a small patch on a child’s skin, like the back of their hand, to check for potential allergic reactions. Choose hats and masks that do not obstruct vision, and avoid decorative contact lenses unless prescribed by an eye specialist.
Safety tips for drivers
Drivers should be aware that around Halloween, there will likely be more people on the roads and in unexpected places. Children can easily break away from parents and wander into the street, and sometimes costumes make them harder to see at night. Remain alert throughout the night, especially when driving through residential areas. Slow down and watch for children who may dart out unexpectedly. If you see a suspected drunk driver, contact law enforcement immediately.
Halloween parties and get-togethers
Halloween isn’t just for children. If you’re attending a Halloween party where alcohol is served and plan to drink, choose a designated driver or arrange another safe form of transportation ahead of time. Never drive under the influence; even a small amount of alcohol can impair your senses.
If you’re hosting a get-together, take responsibility to ensure everyone gets home safely. Be prepared to call a ride, provide sleeping arrangements or drive guests home if you’re sober. Collect car keys from those who are indulging, and offer plenty of food, water and non-alcoholic beverages for those who may not wish to drink or have had enough.
By following these safety tips, everyone can help make this Halloween both safe and fun.
Happy Halloween, Cullman!
