Halloween can be great fun for the whole family, but naked flames and cheap costumes can be a dangerous combination.
There are multiple dangers associated with the American tradition of 'trick-or-treat'. Here are just a few tips to keep youngsters as safe as they can be if they are venturing out to visit friends and neighbours on a dark evening:
For parents:
- Make or buy costumes made from light-coloured materials.
- Avoid, where possible, plastic and synthetic fabrics that can easily catch fire.
- Attach strips of reflective tape to both the front and back of costumes to enhance visibility for drivers.
- Dress your child appropriately for the weather and consider adding extra layers if necessary.
If your child is going out without an adult:
- Make sure your child is part of a group of at least three.
- Provide them with a torch and, if available, a charged mobile phone.
- Discuss the agreed route they should follow and instruct them to contact you if they intend to go a different way.
- Whenever possible, avoid crossing main roads and railway crossings.
For children:
- Don't go to houses that are dark (don’t have lights or decorations on) and never go into a stranger's house.
- Avoid going to houses where older or vulnerable people live, as they might not enjoy Halloween as much as you do!
- Try to visit the homes of your friends, family, or nearby neighbours.
- Watch out for candles near doorsteps.
- If your costume catches fire, remember to STOP, DROP and ROLL.
For homeowners:
- Turn on outdoor lights and replace any bulbs that are not working.
- Remove items from your driveway or porch that could make a child trip.
- Clear away wet leaves from your steps and driveway.
- Use items like torches, LED lights, or battery-operated candles instead of real candles for your decorations.
- Some children have allergies, so consider offering treats like stickers, pens, or stamps.
- If you don't want to take part in trick-or-treating, you can put a polite note on your door.
For drivers:
- Be careful when you see small groups of people walking on the pavement and near places where they might cross the road.
- Drive to road conditions and adhere to speed limits.
- Slow down in neighbourhoods where there might be groups of people, often wearing dark clothing and Halloween outfits crossing the road.