Safety tips for Halloween

Consider these tips to enjoy a safe Halloween for you, your family, your pets and your property.

General safety:

• When you are out and about, especially when it is dark, make sure to travel in groups.
• Before consuming any treats, make sure to check them for any signs of potential tampering.
• If you have loved ones trick-or-treating alone, develop a safety plan that includes designated areas or a radius, doorstep etiquette, time expectations and other tips to remain safe.
• Stay in well-lit areas, and use sidewalks whenever possible. Only go to houses with porch lights on and a well-lit pathway.
• When you are out at night, make sure to carry glow sticks or flashlights, and wear light-colored or reflective clothing to help make sure you are seen by others and drivers.
• Use caution around strangers and others whose costume conceals their identity.
• Be respectful of other people and their property.
• Be courteous — always remember to say, “trick or treat” and “thank you.”
• Consider choosing costumes that are flame resistant, and prevent falls by choosing proper sized costumes .

For adults:

• Since more people will be walking around than normal, make sure vehicles are locked and valuables removed.
• Use extra caution when driving in areas where children are trick-or-treating.
• If you are distributing candy or hosting an event, check that your outdoor lights are on and remove any tripping hazards from guest pathways.
• Make sure children know how and when to call 911.

For pets:

• Make sure treats stay out of the reach of furry family members.
• Consider putting pets in a quiet room away from Halloween activity to reduce their potential stress or hyperactivity.
• If you dress up your pet, ensure no part of the costume could be chewed or come off as a choking hazard, and make sure the costume doesn’t restrict their movement, vision, breathing or hearing.
• Keep pets indoors, whenever possible.