Kevin Laliberte
Editor, Smoky River Express

The excitement of Halloween can make children forget some of the safety rules they have learned. Lit jack-o-lanterns, flimsy or complicated costumes, street traffic and unsafe treats all have the potential to turn this fun occasion into a family tragedy. Keeping kids safe this Halloween, and throughout the year, involves a commitment from parents, children and drivers. Halloween is a time of great excitement for children. However it is important to keep in mind all aspects of your child's safety when planning costumes, decorations, treats and activities on the special night itself. With some simple precautions, you can ensure that Halloween remains a safe and happy experience for the whole family. So, as your little ghosts and goblins prepare for another frighteningly sweet trick-or-treating crusade this Halloween, keep in mind there are plenty of you should do as responsible parents to ensure a safe and happy night. It all starts at home with a little advance preparation, which includes ensuring your child’s costume is visible at night to traffic. Also, remember that masks often obstruct vision and make it difficult for children to breath. To combat this you can use non-toxic makeup or face paint instead. Make sure any props your child carries (wands, swords, etc.) are flexible in case they fall. Teaching your kids how to be safe pedestrians is an important first step. Practice the safety rules with them and set a good example by reinforcing safe behaviour at all times. You may also want to consider putting a name tag on your child’s costume or bag with your address and phone number in the event that you become separated. Common sense dictates that you should accompany your child if they’re under 10 years of age and consider taking them out before it gets dark and colder. For older children going out alone, make sure they carry a cell phone and go out in a group, if possible. Remind them to take a flashlight and only to go to houses with porch lights on. It’s also best to instruct them to stick to the neighbourhoods they’re familiar with, while stressing the rules about engaging in a conversation with strangers. If you’re driving your kids around on Halloween, remember that popular trick-or-treat hours (particularly for younger children) are during typical rush hour periods – so slow down and stay alert in residential areas. Keep in mind that costumes can obscure vision, so children may not see your vehicle. Be sure to look for trick-or-treaters at intersections, on medians and curbs and always enter and exit driveways carefully, double and triple checking your blind spots. Once they get home, take a moment to sort through the candy, making sure to toss out anything with signs of tampering including any loose candy, spoiled items or any homemade treats. Be sure your home is safe for visiting trick-or-treaters by removing any obstructions in the driveway or walkway, providing a well-light entrance and keeping your pets away from the children, even if you think they’re harmless.

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