As Halloween approaches, the UHS Security team has issued a set of guidelines to help families and children stay safe during festivities. The recommendations are aimed at reducing risks associated with trick-or-treating and other holiday activities.
The security team suggests that parents consider taking their children to organized “Trunk or Treat” events, which are often hosted by community organizations such as churches. These venues provide a controlled environment for children to display their costumes and collect treats under adult supervision. “This is a great one stop opportunity for kids to showcase their costumes while increasing the likelihood it will be safe. These are typically hosted by community based organizations including Churches. You still should chaperone but it is a much safer venue than the street,” according to UHS Security.
For those participating in traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating, safety precautions include choosing times closer to dusk or early evening, ensuring all treats are inspected before consumption, and being cautious with homemade goods or unfamiliar brands. “Parents/Guardians should inspect all treats, to ensure they haven’t been tampered with. Caution should be used for re-packaged edibles or homemade goods unless from a trusted source. We’ve all seen needles and pins inside apples and the like. Colored candies are susceptible to being laced with drugs if repackaged. If in doubt, throw out. Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with or in any way appear to be suspicious,” said UHS Security.
Families are encouraged to look for local resources that can scan candy for metal objects or other hazardous substances.
Visibility is another focus of the guidance: “Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen. Use face makeup instead of masks which can make seeing difficult. Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight to light their way and/or glow sticks on their outer garments. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. If possible, have everyone wear light-colored clothing.”
Costume safety tips include using flame-resistant materials due to potential fire hazards from decorations, avoiding long trailing fabrics that could cause tripping, and making sure young children are accompanied by adults who know where they plan on going.
The security team also advises caution around animals: “Be cautious around animals, especially dogs. If concerned, bypass the location and don’t take risks.” Other recommendations include walking rather than running between houses, staying aware of neighborhood conditions such as construction or poor lighting, only visiting homes with porch lights on, sticking to sidewalks when available, crossing streets at corners rather than between parked cars or through alleys, and reminding drivers in residential areas to watch carefully for children who may not always check before crossing streets.
After collecting treats, adults should review all items before allowing children to eat them: “A grown-up should check all goodies before eating. Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and remove any choking hazards.”
Homeowners expecting visitors are encouraged to keep walkways well-lit and clear leaves or obstacles from steps and porches.
