5 Safety Tips To Keep Maine Kids Safe This Halloween

Known for being an evening full of candy and costumes, Halloween is often one of any kid's favorite holidays. Second to opening presents, trick-or-treating is easily on top of a list of favorite fall activities.

In two weeks, sidewalks and streets of most neighborhoods will be covered in kiddos clambering from door to door, hustling for candy.

Here are 5 things to keep in mind as you head out the door with your kids this Halloween.

According to the website healthychildren.org, there are actually a lot of little things to consider to make this holiday "tons of fun".

1.) Keep costumes safe, simple, and easy to see. 

When it comes to costumes, the website says you should make sure they fit well, that they don't obstruct your child's ability to see, and that there are no sharp accessories (like swords) that would injure someone.

Wearing reflective clothing, or even some sort of costume that lights up is always recommended, too.

2.) Be mindful when picking which treats to give out.

For those planning to give out treats, there are a couple of things that could make life a little safer and easier for all.

Handing out candy that's individually wrapped in treat bags or wrappers is helpful. Many kids have allergies these days, so making sure the ingredients are available for parents to review is also important.

3.) If you plan to pass out candy, prepare your surroundings.

Safety experts say that there are a few things you should do before the kiddos end up at your door.

• "Remove tripping hazards to keep your home safe for visiting trick-or-treaters. Keep the porch and front yard clear of anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes, and lawn decorations.
• Check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Sweep wet leaves from sidewalks and steps to prevent anyone from slipping on them.
• Restrain pets so they do not jump on or bite a trick-or-treater."

4.) Check the candy your kids collect before they start to eat it.

Law enforcement agencies also remind folks to check all the collected candy before letting kids eat it. Anything that's not wrapped by the factory or isn't sealed should be thrown away. No candy bar or lollipop is ever worth taking a risk with the health and well-being of any child.

5.) Plan your path and pack accordingly.

For children who will be walking from house to house, here are some things to remember:

Taking flashlights along, having adults accompany kids under 12, and making sure to stick to houses you're familiar with are all ways to stay safe this Halloween.

Make sure your children are familiar with traffic laws, too.

"Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again when crossing, and keep looking as you cross. Put electronic devices down, keep heads up, and walk, don’t run, across the street. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them."

Going up to houses that have lights on, and avoiding those that don't have lights is also a good idea.

For other Halloween safety advice and tips, you can check out safekids.org.

Need some ideas for a good Halloween Costume?