by Angela Harris

Created on: September 16, 2010

Halloween is becoming a very popular holiday for all ages.  And no wonder- who wouldn't like a holiday that revolves around free candy and awesome costumes?  Even so, there are hazards during Halloween that parents should learn. Parents should also explain to their children important safety rules for Halloween. Hopefully, this Halloween safety guide for parents will help ensure a safe and fun Halloween for everyone.

Even if you have already talked to your children about the dangers of talking to strangers, be sure to have the conversation again before going trick-or-treating.  Because of the nature of Halloween, children tend to let their guards down around people that they would normally avoid.

Avoid pedestrian accidents during Halloween by making sure that your children wear costumes that are easily seen at night.  If possible, try to talk your child into wearing a Halloween costume that is light colored or in bright, neon shades.  Some costume suggestions are ghosts, angels, or similar costumes. If your child wants a dark costume, such as the ever popular vampire or witch, insist on applying reflective strips or the use of glowstick wands or necklaces. If these aren't available, use a flashlight to make the trick-or-treaters easily visible.

Halloween costumes can be another safety concern.  If your child's Halloween costume has a long skirt or a flowing cape, be sure that it is made from fire retardant material.  With so many lit jack-o-lanterns around people's houses at Halloween, children's costumes can quickly become a fire hazard.  Also be sure that the Halloween costume isn't too loose, impeding your child's ability to walk around safely.

Check to see if any accessories used with your child's costume are capable of hurting anyone.  They should not contain any sharp points or small parts.  Children love to play act with their Halloween costumes, and a play sword may unintentionally cause harm.

If your children are old enough to go trick-or-treating alone, don't let them go in groups that are too small.  There is safety in numbers.  Make certain that they know not to break away from their group for any reason. Be sure to explain to them other Halloween safety rules regarding traffic, places to avoid, their curfew, and not eating any Halloween candy until it can all be inspected under bright lights.

Suppose you're not able to take your kids trick-or-treating. Or maybe you don't feel comfortable visiting stranger's houses. Many cities and neighborhoods now offer lots of safe alternatives to traditional trick-or-treating.  Lots of nonprofit agencies sponsor many fun Halloween events around October.  Check your local paper or the internet to see what Halloween activities are available in your area.

This Halloween safety guide for parents can serve as a reminder of Halloween safety rules to teach your trick-or-treaters. Be sure that Halloween will always be a holiday with lots of fond, fun memories.

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