Combine dressing up in costumes with free candy and you create a kid friendly holiday! Although Halloween is a favorite holiday for children it does come with it's own unique dangers that all parents and caregivers should be mindful of. With a few basic safety measures your family can have a fun and safe celebration!

         KEEP HALLOWEEN COSTUMES SAFE
         To ensure a safe Halloween, first plan your child's
         costume wisely. From masks to footwear all parts
         should be considered for comfort and safety.

• All Halloween costumes and accessories should be flame resistant - masks, capes, wigs, beards and hats.
   
• Whenever possible try to avoid masks for children.
  Obstructed vision can easily lead to accidents. 
  Make up is safer and more comfortable.
  However, if you choose to use a mask or child is begging for one.... they should be made with soft, comfortable material and allow for a full field of vision.
  
• It's really best to wear sneakers for trick-or-treating.
  They are comfortable and 
  
• Swords, knives, wands, etc. should have no sharp edges or points and preferably made with foam or cardboard.
  
  HALLOWEEN CANDY SAFETY
  
• Children should be taught never to eat the candy they've received until you have carefully inspected it .
   
• It's best to throw away unwrapped candy, homemade items and fruit.
   
• Keep small candies from children under the age of five, 
  it is a choking hazard.
  
  
  INJURIES and ACCIDENTS
  When participating in the frenzied quest for candy
  kids can get injured. Most parents provide flashlights 
  to avoid auto injuries but less serious accidents can also occur due to falling.
  
• Make sure your child's costume is the correct length 
  to avoid tripping.
  
• Not only will a flashlight let drivers see your child 
  but it will improve your child's visibility.
  
• Walk on sidewalks, walkways, driveways and well 
  lit streets only.
  
• Attach a few strips of reflective tape to costumes.
  
  
  STRANGER DANGER
  Abduction is an ugly reality, but as parents we must take precautions to ensure the safety of our children. Never let a child trick-or-treat alone. Adults or older children should always be supervising. 
  In our family we have rule that we only visit 
  homes with decorations, jack-o-lanterns and 
  neighbors we know.