Halloween is peeking around the corner, and with it comes the annual parade of goblins, superheroes, and princesses hitting the streets in search of candy. But before the kids zigzag across the neighborhood on October 31, it's worth revisiting some safety guidelines to keep the trick-or-treating experience spook-free and enjoyable. The City of Peoria has outlined a handful of tips to make sure everyone comes home with a bounty of sweets without any scares.
One of the sharper points to consider is visibility. Dark costumes might be on-brand for the holiday, but they don’t exactly scream 'safety' to drivers. So, lighting up the night is key. The experts over at the City of Peoria recommend that parents "attach safety reflectors to your child’s costume or carry glow sticks so they are visible to drivers." While we're talking wardrobe, let's not forget that avoiding a faceplant is just as important as avoiding a car. The city advises ensuring that "costumes, masks and shoes should fit well to prevent tripping or vision issues."
And then there's the armory many of these costumed kiddos carry. Yes, we're talking props. If your little one's going as a swashbuckler or a valiant knight, steer clear of anything that could accidentally poke an eye out. No swords, sabers, or scepters should come with a trip to the ER included. As the City of Peoria wisely suggests, "Do not allow children to carry knives, swords or other props with hard edges." Street-smart tip: Swap out that hard plastic for something soft and bendy.
When pounding the pavement, it’s all about sticking to the well-trodden path. Sidewalks are your friend; embrace them, love them, use them. In their absence, Peoria's safety buffs say to "walk on the far edge of the road facing traffic." Communication is also key – specifically, being able to find your child when they're out there brushing elbows with all the other witches and wizards. For those brave souls venturing out without adult supervision, "plan a route and establish a curfew," echoes the city's sentiment.
Before the kids dive into their stash, "inspect candy before eating," says the city. Take these tips from The City of Peoria to heart, and make sure this Halloween is all treats, no tricks.
