For Trick Or Treaters

Buy costumes, wigs and props that are labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant. If making a costume, choose material that won't easily ignite if it comes in contact with heat or flame. Avoid billowing or long trailing costumes.

Avoid baggy costumes and poor fitting shoes, which are trip and fall hazards.

Give children lightweight flashlights to carry for lighting or as part of their costume.

To improve visibility to motorists, decorate or trim costumes with reflective tape. Bags or sacks should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape.

Adults should accompany young children on their neighborhood visits. Children should WALK, not run from house to house and use the sidewalk if available, rather than walk in the street. Children shouldn't run out from between parked cars, and never cut across yards, which can pose trip hazards.

Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome.

Many Churches and stores offer organized festivities as a safe alternative to neighborhood trick-or treating.

Remind children to "Stop-Drop-Roll", in case their clothes catch on fire.

For Homeowners Expecting Trick-Or-Treaters

Remove tripping hazards from lawns, steps, or porches.

Keep exits clear of decorations, making sure nothing blocks escape routes.

Keep light bulbs or candlelit Jack O' Lanterns away from highly flammable decorations such as dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper.

Use extreme care if decorating with candles, and supervise children at all times when candles are lit. Never leave candles burning unattended.

Secure indoor pets. Excited and costumed kids could startle a pet resulting in an injured child. Keep candy away from your pets, which can be a choking hazard. Chocolate can be fatal for dogs.

General Safety

Drivers should stay cautious, drive slowly and stay alert for kids crossing the street.

Adult partygoers should designate and reward a driver for the evening.

If entertaining, check under sofa cushions for smoldering cigarettes before going to bed. Use caution when disposing of smoking materials.
Before kids eat treats from the evening, adults should examine candy to check for evidence of tampering.