Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is a great holiday full of scary costumes and bags of candy. However, it's important to take several safety measures when celebrating. Here are some tips to make sure your spooky holiday is as safe as possible.

Trick or treating is something most kids can't wait to do each year. Walking the streets dressed in costumes and getting free candy is a child's dream. To ensure this dream becomes a safe reality, chaperone your child when going door-to-door, even if you live in a safe neighborhood. Remember to walk in well-lit areas and always carry a flashlight.

Costumes are important when it comes to Halloween safety. Costumes should fit properly and be colorful enough that motorists can see your child in the dark. If wearing a dark-colored costume, sew on reflective tape in order to remain visible. Masks should be worn securely and should not impair vision — often times, non-toxic face paint is a better option than masks.

After your child has returned home, inspect their candy. Look for signs of tampering and throw away suspicious-looking candy. Don't allow your child to eat any candy or food that is not commercially wrapped. You should make it clear to your child to not eat any candy while out trick or treating in order to avoid eating potentially harmful candies or foods. You can aid this process by serving your child a snack or meal before heading out.

When passing out candy on Halloween, be sure to properly light the front of your house. Remove tripping hazards on your driveway or porch, such as potted plants, hoses or toys. Also, if you light jack-o-lanterns, keep them away from a child's reach. There are battery powered products on the market today that make jack-o-lanterns look real, yet are safer than a flame-burning candle.

Most areas of Cleveland and the surrounding suburbs are well populated and offer street lights and a neighborhood feel. Areas like Medina, Lorain, and other bordering counties may not have as much light or walkable property.

Remember, Halloween is an exciting holiday and can be a safe one too. Follow these tips and remember to have fun.