Cleveland - Halloween is a time of tricks and treats, but can also be very dangerous. Here are some tips, courtesy of the American Academy of Pediatrics, to help make you and your kids Halloween safe:
Review with children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they ever have an emergency or become lost.
A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind trick-or-treaters:
Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
Remember reflective tape for costumes and trick-or-treat bags.
Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
Never cut across yards or use alleys.
Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out of driveways.
Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
If you plan on passing out candy on Halloween eve, here are a few tips to keep kids safe when they come to your door:
Remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.
You can also stay aware by locating sex offender in your area. There are many websites to track those who could do harm to children on Halloween night. To locate the state's website, click here. Then, just type in your zip code, and offenders in the area will pop up.
Photo courtesy of Jamel Lapointe / Getty Images
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