Halloween can still provide enjoyment and pleasant surprises for today’s children if proper precautions are taken. The Medical Society of the State of New York recommends following these safety tips, which were adapted from those of the American Red Cross.
• Parents should plan the trick-or-treat route ahead of time and, if possible, accompany their children. If not, parents should make sure they know where their children will be going.
• Trick-or-treaters should walk on sidewalks, not on the street. They should be reminded not to hide or cross streets between parked cars, to cross only at street corners and to look both ways before crossing.
• They should always carry a flashlight from dusk on.
• They should only visit homes that have a light at the entrance.
• Parents should stress that treats must be accepted at the door and that children should never go into a stranger’s house.
• Trick-or-treaters should wear face paint rather than masks that could obstruct vision.
• Parents should always inspect treats before allowing children to eat any and not allow children to eat anything from packages that are already open. Remember that small, hard pieces of candy can be choking hazards for young children.