Sheriffs' Office -

Halloween Safety Tips.

When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.

For greater visibility during dusk and darkness, decorate or trim costumes with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights. Bags or sacks should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape. Reflective tape is usually available in hardware, bicycle, and sporting goods stores.

Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

Costumes should be short enough to prevent children from tripping and falling.

Make sure costumes don't drag on the ground.

Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes (even if they don't go with your costume) and temperature appropriate clothing underneath their costumes.

Smaller children should always be with an adult. It's best to take little ones out early.

Hats and scarfs should be tied securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.

Apply a natural mask of cosmetics rather than have a child wear a loose-fitting mask that might obscure vision. If a mask is used, however, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough to allow full vision.

Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords, all props should be of soft and flexible material.

Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

Instruct Children to:

• Walk, don't run.
• Stay on Sidewalks
• Cross only at the corners, never dart out between parked cars.
• Cover one side of the street at a time, no criss-crossing.
• Never go inside someone's home, unless it's a friend's.
• (If no sidewalk) walk on the left side of the road facing traffic
• Stay away from and don't pet animals you don't know.
• Never accept a ride in a car.
• Stay in familiar neighborhoods
• Don't cut across yards or driveways.
• Wear a watch you can read in the dark.
• Only approach houses where the outside lights are on as a signal of welcome.
• If older children are going out without you, go over the ground rules first!
• Know what neighborhoods they will be in.
• Don't allow them in areas with which you are not completely comfortable.
• Have children stay in a group.
• Let them know what time to be home.
• Give them change to use the telephone if necessary.
• Bring bags home to be checked by an adult before eating a single treat.

Child Safety Tips

• Say "no" if someone does anything to make him or her feel uncomfortable.
• Refuse gifts from people he or she doesn't know.
• Kick, hit or make noise if forced into a building or car.
• Never give directions to an adult who says he or she is lost.
• Go to the nearest cashier if lost or separated from you in a store.

• Never invite anyone into the house without permission of a parent.
• Know the dangers of the internet.
• Avoid empty parks, fields or alleys.
• Tell you where he or she is at all times.

• Avoid putting your child's name on clothing or toys.
• Check references of baby sitters and day care.
• Pick a secret word.
• Establish a "phone-tree" contact procedure with friends, neighbors and family.
• Keep an eye on your child.
• Be prepared, just in case.