I know that Halloween has strong historical ties to October 31, but I would like to generate some conversation about moving it to a time of year with warmer weather and a later sunset. I know it's a bold move, but imagine trick-or-treating in the gentle breeze of early June, with a long evening sunset guiding your journey. Nice, right? But until this dream becomes a reality, keeping kids safe on Halloween includes these tips.
Pick the Right Costume
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Avoiding all black costumes will help your child to be seen in the dark. Make sure they wear comfortable footwear, which may include snow boots if you live in a northern climate. Ensure costumes fit properly to avoid tripping and, if possible, avoid masks and other props that impair their vision too much.
Don't Run
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Kids will be excited and want to sprint from house to house, but remind them they'll be able to collect more candy if they don't fall and hurt themselves. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, children are more than twice as likely to be killed by a car on Halloween night than any other time of the year, so make sure they're careful and cautious as they traverse the neighborhood.
Be Selective
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Only visit well-lit houses and remind your children to stick together and never enter homes without a parent or guardian.
Plan Your Route
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Create a route that avoids busy roads and look for safe crosswalks and sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, be sure to walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. And of course, always look both ways before crossing any street.
Find New Ways to Celebrate
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For young children or families who live in neighborhoods that might be difficult to navigate on Halloween night, "trunk-or-treats" are a great alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. A trunk-or-treat event brings Halloween to a parking lot where children go from car to car to ask for candy instead of house to house. Check for organized events in your town.
Be Well Lit
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Have children carry flashlights, glow sticks or headlamps to help them be seen.
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