Safety Tips for Halloween
by Hege Crowton

Parents, safety should be one of your biggest concerns when it comes to your kids going \"trick and treating\" on Halloween night. There are a lot of obvious dangers out there that can easily be avoided if proper
precautions are taken.

Education and knowledge is the first step in protecting yourself and your kids on Halloween night. Sit down and talk to your kids about the dangers they can encounter while out on the street. Be honest and don't sugar coat things.

One very important thing with children is to make them understand the do's and don'ts. Let them know what they are and why it is so important that they follow these rules.

Also as a homeowner you can be a part of keeping our children safe. Please do so. Our children is the most precious gifts we have and anything that can keep them safe is greatly appreciated by all parents out there.

In order to try and help you out a little I will include a few helpful tips for parents, kids and homeowners so that we all can stay as safe as possible.

For the kids:

Always carry a flashlight.
ever walk alone.
Walk on sidewalks, not in the road.
Wear reflective clothing/tape on clothes.
Do not talk to strangers who approach you on the road.
Only go to houses that are lit up.
Never enter a house, always stay outside.
Wear shoes that fit (if you have to run)
Do not eat candy that has been opened.
Be home on time.

For the parents.

Young children should be accompanied by an adult.
Make sure your kid eat before going out.
Let them have a cell phone or money so they can call you or you them.
Know exactly the route they are taking.
Know who they are going with
Let them know the rules.
Give them a certain time for when they have to be home.

For the homeowner.

Keep your porch light on if you want \"trick or treaters\"
Rid your yard for objects that can hurt or trip kids.
Put your dogs away.
Be careful where you put candles so costumes don't catch on fire.
Do not invite children into your home.
Help keep an eye out for the children that are in your neighbor hood.

Following these few safety tips can help us all feel a little better and safer as our children wander out into the scary, dark Halloween night.