The Berkshires have seen cold temperatures and rain for the past two weeks, but it actually looks like the weather looks like it's going to work out for local Trick-Or-Treaters. With the weather on our side, let's me sure everyone enjoys a safe and Happy Halloween with some tips for parents and candy passer-outters (yes, I just made that up) from the Massachusetts Safety Committee.

For Parents

  • Make sure your child’s costume is safe. To avoid trip-and fall injuries, it should fit well and not drag on the floor.  If should also be flame-resistant or flame-retardant, and be light-colored for best visibility.
  • Apply reflective tape to arms/legs and treat bag so that your child is visible to drivers. You can find reflective tape at hardware and sporting goods stores.  In addition, it’s a good idea for all trick-or-treaters to carry a flashlight.
  • If your child wears a mask, make sure the eye-holes are big enough to see trip hazards or oncoming traffic, and that the mouth opening allows them to breathe well. Non-toxic face paint is a great, fun alternative to wearing a mask!
  • Costume accessories, such as swords, knives and other pointed objects should be made of soft materials.
  • An adult should accompany trick-or-treaters under 12 years old.
  • This is a great time to practice safe street-crossing with young children:
    • Use crosswalks and walk-signals
    • Before crossing, look left, right and left again
    • Walk (do not run) across the street
  • Set a curfew for older children, and remind children of all ages never to enter a stranger’s car or home.
  • Check your child’s treats before they enjoy any candy. Keep wrapped or packaged candy, and throw out any unwrapped or suspicious-looking treats.

For Candy Passer-Outters

  • Keep both inside and outside lights on during trick or- treat time to welcome and protect trick-or-treaters.
  • Avoid placing candles and jack-o-lanterns on doorsteps and walkways where costumes could brush against them and cause burns or a fire.
  • Only hand out wrapped or packaged candy and treats. Avoid handing out small inexpensive toys that could cause choking or lead-poisoning for young children

 

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