BEFORE HALLOWEEN:

• Plan costumes that are bright, reflective, and short enough to prevent tripping.
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to the costume and/or Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider make-up and decorative hats as safer alternatives.
• When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, look for a label that indicates that they are flame resistant.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and the escorts.
• Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.
• Teach children to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free at any payphone.
• Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.
• Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.
• Take efforts to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and around your property.

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN:

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
• In the home, do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects.
• Do not put Jack O' Lanterns near drapes or other flammable materials.
• Plan and review with your children the route and behavior that is acceptable to you.

WHEN TRICK-OR-TREATING:

• A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• Remind Trick-or Treaters:
• By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.
• Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
• Only go to homes with porch lights on.
• Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
• Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
• Never run across street.
• Only cross streets as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).
• Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters.
• Never accept food or drinks while Trick-or-Treating.
• No treats are to be eaten until the are checked by an Adult at home.
• Law Enforcement authorities should be notified of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING:

• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats.
• Parents or responsible Adults should closely examine all treats and throw away unwrapped or suspicious items.
• Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.