Be Scary Safe This Halloween

Halloween Safety Tips for Everyone

Halloween safety may be the last thing on your radar. After all, you're either out trick-or-treating, at home handing out candy, or hosting a spooky party. Is there really anything that scary to think about?

Actually there is. And it's not ghosts, goblins, ghouls, or things that go bump in the night.

Halloween Facts

• If you drink and drive, you may spend more money on legal fees and penalties than the money you spent on many years of Halloween costumes.
• If someone is injured on your property, you could be held liable.
• If you serve alcohol at your Halloween party, you may be responsible for any accidents caused by intoxicated minors.
• If you are a business or individual with a liquor license and continue serving a visibly intoxicated person, you may be liable for any accidents they cause.

Halloween Stats

• Twice as many child pedestrians are killed on Halloween night than on any other night of the year.
• 77% of parents report feeling fearful around Halloween, and the reasons include:
• A child being hit by a car or truck - 31%
• Poisoning from tampered or spoiled treats - 24%
• Abductions - 15%
• Falls - 4%
• 12% of parents report that their child age 5 or younger is allowed to trick-or-treat without adult supervision.
• 40% of parents allow one or more unsafe items in their child's costume, including masks, long or loose clothing, and a sword, stick, or other sharp object.

If you do have some fear around Halloween that's not caused by horror movies, you're not alone.

But you shouldn't have to feel fearful as you host a fun get-together or as your children go trick-or-treating. That's why it's important to be informed and take the proper precautions to promote safety.

Keep reading for some quick tips on what you can do to prevent accidents from happening this Halloween, or take a look at our Halloween infographic for more information.

Halloween Safety Tips for Adults

• Supervise – All children should be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating.
• Stand Out – Wear bright colors if possible, or you can add reflective tape to dark costumes
• Who Ya Gonna Call? – Put emergency identification on costumes or on your child's wrist. Include name, phone number, and address in case they get separated.
• Check It First – Dangerous paint ingredients can cause serious harm to young children. Make sure you know exactly what's in your child's face paint.
• Masked Dangers – Young children shouldn't wear masks. Depending on the child's size, they could cause breathing problems or obstructed vision.
• Treat Inspectors – Make sure you look at all of your kid's candy first. Throw away any unwrapped or unsealed pieces.
• 911 – Teach your children the emergency number, just in case.
• Don't Drive – If you're able, avoid driving during trick-or-treating.
• Be Alert – If you're driving, always watch for children crossing the street. Likewise, if you're out with your kids, make sure the road is clear.
• Never Drink & Drive – Halloween is a great time for parties, but sometimes that means drinking. Never get behind the wheel after you've had alcohol.

Halloween Safety Tips For Kids

• Buddy System – Never trick-or-treat alone.
• Stranger Danger – Never go inside a stranger's house.
• Lights On – Only trick-or-treat at houses with their lights on.
• Pet Problems – Watch out for animals. They may be confused by all the Halloween happenings and act aggressive.
• Carry a Light – Take a flashlight with you, so you don't trip or fall on anything dangerous.
• Crosswalks – Never cross between cars or between big bushes and trees. When you cross the street, use the crosswalks.
• Neighborhoods – Always trick-or-treat in familiar neighborhoods and at homes of people you know.
• See Clearly – Take your mask off in between houses, so you're better able to see.

Halloween Safety Tips for Homeowners

• Keep it Clear – Clear steps and lawns of any tripping hazards (electric cords, hoses, etc.).
• Pet Protection – Put any pets away. The sights and sounds of Halloween may be frightening to them too, which could lead to aggressive behavior.
• Pathways – Keep your sidewalks and pathways clearly lit.
• Store Bought – Save the homemade treats for another time.
• Party Safe – If you're having a party, don't provide alcohol to minors. Know the Social Host laws of Pennsylvania.

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