Keep Livingston Trick-or-Treaters Safe This Halloween

For most kids, Halloween is a favorite holiday, second only to Christmas. What's not to love? They get to be something they're not, and run around with their friends collecting candy and goodies from neighbors.

Unfortunately, tragedy doesn't take a holiday on Halloween, so kids should be reminded to stay alert and remember common sense. Here are some important safety tips for trick-or-treating children this Halloween:

• Never enter a stranger's house or vehicle. Stay within your parents' sight at all times.
• Remember to look both ways before crossing the street.
• If you're older and trick-or-treat with friends, plan a safe route, stay with your group and let your parents know what time you'll be home. Take your cell phone, and make sure it's fully charged.
• The temptation is hard to ignore, but resist the urge to dig into your candy haul until you get it home. This way your parents can check for issues, allergens, expiration dates. (Count your candy before your parents check it, to make sure they don't steal your stash!)
• Avoid alleys, dark streets and fields. Don't knock on doors whose porch lights aren't on.
• Carry a flashlight or glowstick, and if possible, affix reflective tape to your costume so people can see you.

Costume safety for kids and adults

• Whether storebought or homemade, costumes should be made of flame-retardant or reistant material.
• If you're buying a costume, do it from a reputable retailer that sells high-quality costumes and has good customer service.
• Use reflective tape or glowsticks to make your costume visible at night, especially if you'll be trick-or-treating.
• Make sure the costume fits properly, so you don't trip or get snagged.
• Test makeup, fake blood or other cosmetics in advance by applying a small amount to the inside of the arm. If rash, redness, swelling or other signs of irritation develop, don't use it.
• If wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough to see peripherally, even if you have to cut them a little larger. It should also have proper ventilation.

Source: www.halloween-safety.com