Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.
When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.
Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.
This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.
Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.
Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.
Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.
Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.
Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.
Learn or review CPR skills to aid someone who is choking or having a heart attack.
Consider safe party guidelines when hosting an Adult or Office Party.
Fun Alternatives
Find a special event or start one in your own neighborhood.
Community Centers, Shopping Malls and Houses of Worship may have organized festivities.
Share the fun by arranging a visit to a Retirement Home or Senior Center.
Create an alliance with College Fraternities, Sororities or Service Clubs for children's face painting or a carnival.
Before Nightfall on Halloween
Make sure your home is safe for trick-or-treaters to visit!
A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.
While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O' Lantern, leave the carving to adults.
Always keep Jack O' Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.
Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you.
Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard.
Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.
Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.
Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.
Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.
Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.
