Halloween Safety

Halloween is a cherished tradition but the excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful. There is no real "trick" to making Halloween a real treat for the entire family. The major dangers are not from witches or spirits but rather from falls and pedestrian/car crashes. Both children and adults need to think about safety on this annual day of make-believe.

• Before children start out on their "trick or treat" rounds, parents should:

• Make sure that an adult or an older responsible youth will be supervising the outing for children under age 12.

• Plan and discuss the route trick-or-treaters intend to follow. Know the names of older children's companions.

• Instruct your children to travel only in familiar areas and along an established route.

• Teach your children to stop only at houses that are well-lit and never to enter a stranger's home.

• Establish a return time.

• Tell your youngsters not to eat any treat until they return home.