Halloween Safety Tips...

Leaders of a local violence prevention coalition are urging parents to use caution and common sense to help their little boys and ghouls have a safe Halloween.

“Trick-or-treating is supposed to be fun-filled, and it’s a Halloween tradition for many Rice County families,” said Erica Staab, executive director of the Hope Center in Faribault, which works to end domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault. “Using common sense can prevent injuries and help keep kids safe.”

Older children might be able to make their rounds without parental supervision, but they always should travel in groups, Staab said.

Parents should accompany younger children as a precaution, Staab said. Drive slowly and enter and exit driveways carefully. Drivers also need to be on the lookout for children who might dart between parked cars or out into the street.

Teens and adults also should avoid making and taking calls on cell phones and texting while driving. A study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found people driving cars were 2.8 times more likely to be involved in a crash while having cell phone conversations. People who used text messaging were 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash.

Here are some other tips to help make Halloween safe:

Costumes:
• Alter costumes that are too long to reduce the likelihood of a child tripping and falling
• Make sure masks do not obstruct vision; face paint is a good alternative
• Wear reflective fabric or tape to boost visibility
• Dress appropriately for the weather

Before heading out:
• Plan a route and make sure adults know where older children plan to go
• Stress the importance of visiting well-lit houses of neighbors, friends, relatives and acquaintances
• Set expectations for when children should return home
• Instruct children not to eat candy before parents have a chance to inspect it. This can prevent unintended exposure to food allergens and possible tampering. Documented instances of tampering with candy are rare.

While out:
• Carry a flashlight
• Stay in populated areas
• Look both ways before crossing streets; use crosswalks
— Source: HOPE Center and Amy Olson, volunteer