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Stay Safe on Halloween in Bellingham

by Theresa Carpine10/29/2008 3:30:03 PM

Halloween combines two popular childhood activities—playing dress-up and eating candy—so it’s no surprise that the holiday is one of the most popular annual events in America for kids. And, let’s be honest, grown-ups love it too. Whether you’re anxious for some Jack-O-Lantern carving or passing out Fun-Sized Snickers on the big night, Halloween makes everyone feel like a kid again.

Just a few reminders before the kids start knocking on doors for treats.

But, as a parent, you need to make sure your kids are safe while Trick or Treating. Here are some tips to remember when the kids are heading out the door on Halloween night.

Dress for Success
It’s a good idea to wear light-colored clothing so that you’ll be more visible for cars at night. And if your child has their heart set on being a witch or a vampire, all decked out in black, make sure they carry a flashlight or attach some Reflective Tape to their cape, hat, or broom. They might protest that it’s not “cool,” but their safety is a non-negotiable. You should also make sure that kids are comfortable moving around in their costumes, so they don’t trip on their wizard’s robe or have trouble seeing through their Darth Vader mask. Finally, even though they will really want to show off their Shawn Johnson gymnast outfit, make sure kids are properly dressed for cold and rainy weather (it’s almost November, after all).

Candy from Strangers
Halloween seems to go against everything we teach our kids about strangers and candy, so make sure that young kids understand what kinds of treats are okay to accept. Candy in sealed packaging is usually safe; homemade cookies and candies should be handled with more caution, especially if you don’t know the person passing it out. Kids should also learn never to go inside a house without a parent’s permission. And before sending kids out to collect treats, feed them a hearty dinner so they won’t start scarfing down candy as soon as it’s in their bag; it’ll save them a tummy ache later on.

Without the Parents
If you have older kids, they might be interested in Trick or Treating without you or other parental supervision. You know your child best, so if you think they’re mature enough to go out with just their friends, then that is up to you. Be sure to give kids clear parameters about which houses and which streets in your neighborhood are safe for visiting, as well as a specific time to be home. You should also make them agree to bring candy home to be inspected before eating. You’ll just have to trust that they’ll obey you on that one, and if you don’t think they will, you might want to rethink allowing them the privilege of going out without a parent.

Alternatives to Trick or Treating
Several local organizations are holding open to the public Halloween parties and events, which are a good alternative (or addition) to the fun kids have going from house to house. Many churches and schools also organize individual Harvest Parties, so ask your child's teacher or neighborhood friends if they know of any spooky events coming up in your area for the holiday.

Have a Happy Halloween!

A Note About the Author: Theresa Carpine

Theresa Carpine graduated from WWU in 2006 with a BA in English Literature. She enjoys yoga, listening to music, riding her bike in downtown Bellingham, and babysitting really cute kids.