Top Tips for Halloween Safety
On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
- Carry glow sticks or flashlights, use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and bags, and wear light colors to help kids see and be seen by drivers.
- Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating.
- Slow down and be alert! Kids are excited on Halloween and may dart into the street. Turn on headlights early in the day to spot kids from further away.
- Remind kids to cross the street at corners or crosswalks.
- When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls. Choose face paint over masks when possible. Masks can limit children’s vision.
Safety Tips For Checking Halloween Candy
Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any of the following candies that have:
- An unusual appearance or discoloration.
- Tiny pinholes or tears in wrappers.
- Spoiled or unwrapped items.
- Homemade items or baked goods should be discarded unless you personally know who gave them.
- When in doubt, throw it out!
Tell children not to accept -- and, especially, not to eat--anything that isn't commercially wrapped.
Parents of young children should also remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies and small toys.
Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.
If you have any questions about possible tainted candy, you can contact the:
- POISON CONTROL CENTER 1-800-222-1222
- Napoleon Police Department 419-599-2810