Community Corner

Township Offers Halloween Safety Tips

Whether going to a party or trick-or-treating with the kids, don't forget to think about safety.

The following was submitted by the Township of Springfield:

Halloween is a highly anticipated holiday for kids and adults alike.  For many people Halloween marks the beginning of the autumn and winter holidays. In recent years, Halloween has been growing in popularity among adults. Nearly 1 in 3 adults will attend a Halloween party this year. Whether going to a party or trick-or-treating with the kids, don’t forget to think about safety. 

When trick-or-treating with the kids

¨      If you are the designated adult “candy dispenser” on trick-or-treat night be sure to turn all porch and exterior house lights on so folks don’t trip on the steps leading to your house or sidewalk

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¨      Map out a safe neighborhood route for your children to follow.  It’s even a good idea to walk it ahead of time with your kids.

¨      For children under 10 years old, it’s a wise idea to have an adult accompany them during the trick-or-treating.

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¨      Warn children never to go inside a home.  All trick-or-treating should be done in full view of the porch.

¨      Reinforce traffic safety rules with your children including looking both ways before crossing a street and following all traffic signs. 

¨      Make sure costumes are easy to see in the dark.  While black is often used to create a scary costume, it isn’t visible to drivers unless there are reflective patches.  Also, check that the costumes are flame retardant.

¨      Be sure you have fully charge cell phones or walkie-talkies in case of an emergency.  Test out the ring tone before the kids leave the house.

¨      Masks can impair vision; try using face-makeup instead.

For the Halloween Party Crowd

¨      Designate a sober driver in advance.  If intending to drink alcohol, plan ahead to get home safely by selecting a designated driver or ensuring cab service is available from the party location

¨      Consider an overnight stay.  If attending a party at a friend’s home, consider asking to stay overnight or look into hotel accommodations within walking distance.  Many hotels offer special Halloween weekend rates and promotions.

¨      Exercise extreme caution when driving a vehicle.  If possible, try to avoid cutting through residential areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be present.  If providing directions to a party, try not to route guests through residential areas unnecessarily.

¨      Watch for children in the street.  Be on the alert for excited youngsters, whose vision may be obscured by masks, darting out into traffic.  Trick-or-treating, children may not pay attention to traffic and might cross mid-block or between parked cars.  

¨      Obey the speed limit.  Motorists should obey the posted speed limit.  When driving through residential areas where trick-or-treaters are likely out, consider driving under the speed.

Halloween is a fun-filled holiday.  Follow these safety tips to avoid any unwanted Halloween scares.  Make Halloween a safe, fun, and happy time that is enjoyed by kids and adults 


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