Indiana State Police Offer Halloween Safety Tips

Last updated on Thursday, October 22, 2015

(UNDATED) - The Indiana State Police would like to remind parents and children of a few safety tips to observe during upcoming Halloween festivities.

Costume Tips

Keep costumes short to prevent trips and falls.
Try make-up instead of a mask. Masks often obstruct a child's vision, which makes tasks like crossing the street and going up and down stairs dangerous.
Make sure children wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes.
Costume props, such as swords, knives etc., should be short, soft and flexible

Trick or Treating

Make sure older children trick-or-treat with friends. Together, map out a safe route so parents know where they will be.
Instruct children to stop only at familiar homes where the outside lights are on.
Encourage children to trick-or-treat while it's still light out. If children are out after dark, make sure they have flashlights and travel on well lighted streets.
Remind children not to enter the homes or cars of strangers.
Remember to walk and not run, use sidewalks and cross at crosswalks when possible
Follow your communities trick-or-treating hours.

Treats

Remind children not to eat any of their treats until they get home.
Check out all treats at home in a well-lighted place.
Only eat unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. Remember to inspect fruits for anything suspicious.
Homeowners should make sure to keep walkways clear of obstacles and well lit. Keep lit candles and other luminaries away from areas where children will be.

Many communities, schools and churches offer children safe alternatives to trick-or-treating designed to keep children safely within parents' view. Some hospitals and schools allow children to trick-or-treat by going from room to room virtually eliminating the dangers associated with being out walking on the street after dark.

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com

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