If you’re anything like us, you’ll be carting a few trick-or-treaters around this evening as they collect their motherlode of sugary sweets.
Halloween is a lot of fun but it is also an evening when many people get up to mischief so it is important that your ghost, witch and vampire return home safely to enjoy an evening with their favourite spooky movie.
Here’s our tips on how to keep your little monsters safe from harm.
It’s All About The Costume
It is always nice to be the spookiest trick-or-treater in town but when you are dressing your child in their costume, make sure if fits right, especially if it’s a hand-me-down. If a costume is too long, your child could trip on it and hurt themselves.
Make sure your child’s costume is flame resistant and displays the CE mark. This will help prevent an accident if your child encounters a Halloween bonfire or any other fire source.
Be Wary Of Dogs
Even the most placid dog can be agitated on Halloween because of the loud noises and the continuous footsteps up the driveway. Be wary of large dogs who could harm your children. If you have a dog, make sure that he is kept inside, where he won’t frighten or harm your trick-or-treaters
Be Careful On The Roads!
It is bound to be dark when you and your brood set off on an evening of trick-or-treating so make sure that you are wearing high-visibility gear over your costumes. Load up your flashlights with new batteries.
Where possible stay on the path and take extra care when crossing the road. Avoid shortcuts such as alleyways, as cars will have a difficult time spotting you in the dark.
If your children are wearing masks, urge them to lift them off every time they cross the road to increase their visibility. If you are driving tonight, take extra care and look out for rouge trick-or-treaters.
Keeping your children safe this Halloween is the priority
Accompany Your Children
Despite what other parents may allow, you really should not let children under the age of 12 trick-or-treat unaccompanied. It is important to keep a firm eye on your children to avoid accidents.
Limit The Sweets
Your children may be tempted to dig into their trick-or-treat bag the second they get home, but it is important not to allow a sugar overdose. Give each child a few sweets and then put them away, out of reach. Before you go trick-or-treating, make sure your children are well fed, which may discourage them to snack on sweets as they trick-or-treat.
Report Any Mischief
If you see anybody preparing fireworks, starting a bonfire or vandalizing property, do not hesitate to call the gardai. Remember that these activities are illegal and could hurt other children in your neighbourhood.
