Halloween is an exciting time of year for children, but this excitement can cause children to forget to be careful.  Both children and adults need to think about safety on this annual night of make-believe.  Plan ahead, be observant, and follow safety rules.

Below are some helpful safety tips given by the Cayuga County Department of Health for everyone who enjoys this fun filled holiday.

Costume Tips

• Should be made with materials that are flame resistant.
• Should fit loosely.
• Clothes should be warm and should be worn underneath costumes.
• Wear good fitting shoes, even if it is not part of the costume.
• Costume materials should be made with light colored or reflective materials.
• When wearing masks, be sure that openings for the nose, mouth, and eyes are large enough to prevent obstruction of breathing and or vision.
• When using facial make up, follow the manufacturer's instructions for properly applying and removing the make up.
• Props for the costumes should not have any sharp or pointed edges.  For example, knives and/or swords should be made out of cardboard.

Trick or Treating Tips for Parents

• Plan and discuss the route you and/or your children will be following.

• Teach your children to only stop at houses that are well lit.
• Teach your children to never enter into someone's home.
• Always accompany young children.

• Teach your children to never open and eat treats until they have arrived back home and has been inspected by you or a supervising adult.

• Inspect all treats before allowing children to consume treats.

• Throw out all unwrapped treats.

Trick or Treating Tips for Children

• Know and talk about the route you will be taking with an adult.
• Stay in a group, do not walk alone.
• Do not enter any vehicles or houses of someone you do not know.
• Never consume unwrapped foot items or open beverages from someone you do not know.
• Walk on sidewalks.  If sidewalks are not available, walk on the side of the road facing traffic.

• Food & Drug Administration - Safety Tips for Halloween

If you would like any Halloween Safety tips added to our website, or for more information about Halloween Safety you may contact us at (315) 253-1560 or email us at cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us.