Halloween Safety Tips

When Trick-or-Treating:

A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.

Remind Trick-or-Treaters:

• By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.
• Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.
• Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
• Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
• Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
• Always walk. Never run across a street.
• Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).
• Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.
• Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.
• Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.
• No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.
• Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

Both the young and young-at-heart need to openly discuss safety during Halloween

After Trick-or-Treating:

• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
• Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.
• Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.

Source: the Los Angeles Fire Department