Trick-Or-Treating Safey Tips
October 31, 2009 – 7:04 am
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has developed a resource that police agencies can distribute to citizens to help ensure the safety of kids in their communities:
- CHOOSE bright, flame-retardant costumes or add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags so children are easily seen in the dark. In addition, carry a glow stick or flashlight.
- PLAN a trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets. Avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods, streets that are isolated, or homes that are poorly lit inside or outside.
- NEVER send young children out alone. They should always be accompanied by a parent or another trusted adult. Older children should always travel in groups.
- ALWAYS walk younger children to the door to receive treats and don’t let children enter a home unless you are with them.
- BE SURE children do not approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless you are with them.
- DISCUSS basic pedestrian safety rules that children should use when walking to and from houses.
- CONSIDER organizing a home or community party as an alternative to “trick-or-treating.”
- MAKE sure children know their home phone number and address in case you get separated. Teach children how to call 911 in an emergency.
- TEACH children to say “NO!” or “this is not my mother/father” in a loud voice if someone tries to get them to go somewhere, accept anything other than a treat, or leave with them. And teach them that they should make every effort to get away by kicking, screaming and resisting.
- REMIND children to remain alert and report suspicious incidents to parents and/or law enforcement.