Keep Halloween safety tips in mind

With the holiday of tricks and treats approaching, now is a good time for us to remind everyone about the importance of taking a few precautions to make sure Halloween is as safe as it is spooky and the only tricks are all in good fun.

Ensure a safe Halloween this year by putting a few safety measures in place. In Franklin County there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the season with your family, from fall festivals to trunk-or-treats, and we hope everyone will take the opportunity to enjoy this time of year. Whether you’re staying home to pass out candy heading out to a fun community event – in costume or not – we think you should keep safety in focus.

The National Safety County (www.nsc.org) share these tips to keep in mind, which likely apply no matter your Halloween plans:

• A responsible adult should accompany young children on neighborhood rounds.
• If older children are going trick-or-treating alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you.
• Agree on a specific time children should return home.
• Teach your children to never enter a stranger’s home or car.
• Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
• Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home.

• Children and adults are reminded to put electronic their devices down, keep their heads up and walk – don’t run – across the street.

• All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant.
• Avoid masks, which can obstruct vision.
• If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them glow sticks.
• When buying Halloween makeup, make sure it is nontoxic and always test it in a small area first.
• Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation.

The NSC also reminds us the importance of being safe drivers during this time of year. Whether you’re cruising a downtown street or driving through your neighborhood, there are likely to be many more friends and neighbors out and about, whether they’re on the prowl for candy or just enjoying the cooler weather.

Motorists are encouraged to watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs; enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully; at twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing – all of which is good advice year-round as well around Oct. 31. Additionally, the NSC discourages new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.

This is a favorite time of year for many adults and children alike. Let’s keep it fun and festive while avoiding any potential dangers.