the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Halloween is almost here! Ridgewood Police Chief Lyons, Officer Perez, and a ribbiting special guest are here to share 5 important safety tips for a fun and safe night of trick-or-treating! See who hopped in to lend a hand:
Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year, filled with costumes, candy, and spooky fun. However, it’s important to prioritize safety, whether you’re trick-or-treating, attending parties, or hosting events. By following a few safety guidelines, you can ensure that your Halloween is filled with treats, not tricks. Check out the Facebook video : https://fb.watch/vlSKvM2WdP/
Here are some essential Halloween safety tips for kids, adults, and homeowners:
Trick-or-Treating Safety for Kids
- Stick to the Route: Make sure children stick to well-lit, familiar areas. Plan a route that keeps them in the neighborhood and away from heavy traffic or unfamiliar streets.
- Go in Groups: Children should always be accompanied by a trusted adult, especially younger ones. Older kids should stay in groups, as there is safety in numbers.
- Bright Costumes and Reflective Gear: Dark costumes are popular on Halloween, but they can make kids hard to see at night. Consider costumes with reflective strips or have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to improve visibility.
- Costume Safety: Costumes should fit properly to avoid tripping. Masks can obstruct vision, so try using face paint instead. If your child’s costume includes props like swords or wands, make sure they’re soft and flexible.
- Check Candy: Always inspect candy before letting children eat it. Throw away any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items.
- Cross Safely: Use crosswalks and look both ways before crossing the street. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb, and remind kids to avoid darting between parked cars.
Halloween Safety for Adults
- Drive Carefully: On Halloween night, slow down in residential neighborhoods. Be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters, especially around parked cars or intersections.
- Choose Safe Decorations: If you’re decorating your home, make sure any lights or electrical decorations are safe to use and won’t pose a fire hazard. Keep walkways clear of obstacles and well-lit to prevent tripping.
- Monitor Parties: If you’re hosting a Halloween party, ensure that guests have safe transportation home. Encourage responsible drinking and designate drivers or arrange ride-shares for anyone who may need them.
- Pet Safety: Keep pets indoors during Halloween to prevent them from getting startled by loud noises or costumes. Keep them away from the front door if they’re prone to running out or getting anxious with trick-or-treaters.
Halloween Safety for Homeowners
- Keep Walkways Clear: Ensure that your walkway and porch are free of tripping hazards like garden hoses, bikes, or Halloween decorations. Good lighting can help prevent accidents.
- Use Safe Candles: If you’re decorating with jack-o’-lanterns, consider using battery-powered candles instead of real flames to avoid fire hazards.
- Secure Decorations: Make sure that any inflatable decorations, spider webs, or hanging items are securely fastened so they won’t blow into pathways or streets.
Have a Fun and Safe Halloween!
By following these simple tips, you and your family can enjoy a safe and spooky Halloween. Whether you’re out collecting candy or staying in to greet trick-or-treaters, safety should always come first. Enjoy the festive season, and have a Happy Halloween!
