Not-so-spooky tips for safe trick-or-treating

By USAG Stuttgart Directorate of Emergency Services

For young children, Halloween night is one of the best of the year. But trick-or-treating can be dangerous if kids and parents aren’t careful. The USAG Stuttgart Police would like for you to take a look at some vital trick-or-treating tips before you accompany your child in the housing areas on October 31, 2018.

 

When it comes to costume safety, children should:
• Wear clothing that is bright, reflective and short which will help to prevents tripping.
• Wear sneakers or comfortable shoes.
• Don’t wear floppy hats or wigs that can slide over the eyes.
• Wear a face masks that allows you to see well through and does not obstruct your child’s vision
• You should try to avoid toy weapons – if desired, use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid.
• Stay away from pets, pets may not recognize the child and become frightened.

Pedestrian Safety
• Children should stay within familiar areas and surroundings. Parents should establish a route for children.
• Children should use flashlights and stay on sidewalks.
• Children should cross the street at corners / crosswalks and not between parked cars.
• Motorists should drive slowly and watch carefully for children.

General Safety
• Children should travel in small groups and be accompanied by parents or an authorized adult chaperone
• Children should never go into homes – stay on the porch or stoop when asking for treats.
• Children should avoid homes that don’t have their outside lights turned on.
• Children should never talk to strangers or get into strangers’ cars.
• Children should bring home treats before eating them so parents can inspect them. When children get home, parents should inspect all candy and other treats before they are eaten. Discard all unwrapped or loosely wrapped candy or fruit.
• Parents should cut into fruit, such as apples, to make sure they do not contain foreign objects.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call the USAG Stuttgart Police at DSN 431-3102/COMM (0)7031-15-3102.