The Lake Orion Police Department provides these common sense suggestions to parents and homeowners to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween.
Preparing your home
n Clear all walkways of wet leaves, clear garden hoses and other hazards in the pathways trick or treaters will follow to and from your door.
n Make sure any lit candles or jack-o-lanterns are well away from the area children will gather at your door. A child’s costume could ignite if placed too close.
n Turn on the porch light at the door where you will pass out treats. An unlit doorway is hazardous and uninviting.
n NEVER invite or request children enter your home to receive a treat.
n Lock all other doors and windows other than the door you are using to pass out treats.
n Keep all pets, especially dogs, secured. Any dog could bite a child if startled.
Costume considerations
n Purchase only costumes that state they are flame resident
n Be sure the costume is not too long; tripping hazards will result.
n Consider using face paint instead of a mask. Masks restrict a child’s vision.
n If you must use a mask, enlarge the eyeholes as needed to expand vision area.
n Use reflective tape or bright color costumes. Always suggest a white candy bag for extra illumination.
Pre-fright checklist
n Prepare a route for your children. Agree on a start time and location end time and location.
n Chaperone your children if possible. If not, have them go out in a group of at least three children if possible. There is safety in numbers.
n Don’t allow children to ride a bicycle during trick or treating. Costumes get entangled and other children are placed at risk of a collision in the dark.
n Take a flashlight or glow stick. Carry a cellular telephone if available.
n Remind children they may dial 911 from any telephone, including pay phones at no charge.
n Openly discuss inappropriate behavior during Halloween activities, what you expect.
n Prepare and ensure children eat a good meal just prior to heading out.