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S A F E T Y
Careful thought and planning may go into a child's Halloween costume, but the excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful on the streets. Both children and adults need to give real attention to safety on this annual day of make-believe. And with a little extra thought and planning, we can make sure that all children have fun and safe outings on Halloween. IN THE CAR The National Safety Council urges motorists to be especially alert on Halloween and offers the following driving tips: Watch for children darting out from between parked cars Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs. Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully. If you are driving children, be sure they exit on the curb side, away from traffic. Do not wear your mask while driving. At twilight, or later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing. BEFORE THEY GO OUT Before children start out on their "trick or treat" rounds, parents should make sure that: An adult will be supervising the outing for children under age 12. Children travel only in familiar areas and along an established route. Children know to stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well-lit and never to enter a stranger's home. Each child has change for a phone call in case they have a problem. A return time has been established. Youngsters understand not to eat any treat until you have inspected it. Plan and discuss the route trick-or-treaters intend to follow. Know the names of older children's companions. Review all appropriate trick-or-treat safety precautions, including pedestrian/traffic safety rules. COSTUMES Only fire-retardant materials should be used for costumes. Costumes should be loose so warm clothes can be worn underneath. Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard. (Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween.) Outfits should be made with light colored materials. Strips of reflective tape should be used to make children even more visible. For youngsters under the age of 12, attach their name, address and telephone number (including their area code) to their clothes, but where easily visible. MAKE UP AND MASKS Masks can obstruct a child's vision. Facial make-up is safer and more colorful. When buying special Halloween makeup, check for packages containing ingredients that are labeled "Made with U.S. Approved Color Additives", "Laboratory Tested", "Meets Federal Standards for Cosmetics" or "Non-Toxic." Follow manufacturer's instruction for application. If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eye holes. ACCESSORIES Knives, swords and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects. Bags or sacks carried by youngsters should be light-colored or designed or trimmed with retro-reflective tape if trick or treaters are allowed out after dark. Carrying flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly. RULES FOR KIDS Children should understand and follow these rules: Do not enter homes or apartments without adult supervision. Walk, do not run, from house to house. Do not cross yards and lawns where unseen objects or the uneven terrain can present tripping hazards. Walk on sidewalks, not in the street. Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic if there are no sidewalks. TREATS To ensure a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treat outing for children, parents are urged to: Give children an early meal before going out. Insist that treats be brought home for inspection before anything is eaten. Wash fruit and slice into small pieces. Report anything that appears suspicious about treats to the police. When in doubt, throw it out.

Safety tips courtesy of the National Safety Council.