Tips for a Safe Halloween Experience

The American Legion’s National Commission on Children & Youth is very concerned about the welfare of our nation’s youth. This brochure was designed to help you and your child keep trick-or-treating safety in mind during this Halloween season.

Every year around October 31, children’s’ fantasies come true. They look forward to dressing up as their favorite character and knocking on neighbor’s doors to ask the age-old question “Trick or Treat?” Not too surprisingly, they usually get what they want- a bag full of sweets and goodies. However, even children’s fantasies can sour if parents and children do not properly prepare for a safe night. Please take the time to review the safety tips and suggestions in this brochure and share them with your child. Together, you and your child can make Halloween a fun and safe night.

As long as Halloween activities are sponsored and promoted in our various communities, the National Commission on Children & Youth believes children and parents should know how to make this observance as safe as possible. Such concern should not be interpreted as an endorsement or approval of Halloween and an annual event.

Halloween Safety Tips

• ·         All children should know their phone number and address and the following safety tips.
• ·         A responsible adult should always accompany children
• ·         Costumes should be light in color to aid visibility, be fire resistant, and not pose a tripping hazard.
• ·         Use make-up instead of vision-blocking masks.
• ·         Always use sidewalks and obey traffic signals.
• ·         Always cross the street at corners. Never cross the street between parked cars.
• ·         Never go into a house for any reason.
• ·         Never go with somebody without prior parental permission.
• ·         Only accept sealed and wrapped treats.
• ·         Always wait until adult checks all treats at home before eating.
• ·         Dial 911 for emergencies, or dial 0 for an operator.
• ·        Have Fun and Be Safe!

The American Legion Department of Michigan represents over 70,000 members in the State of Michigan. The American Legion was founded in 1919, based on “The Four Pillars”; veteran rehabilitation, Americanism, child welfare, and national security and continued above all its mission as a consumers’ advocate for veterans. For more information contact the Michigan Legion at 517-371-4720 ext 16, mark@michiganlegion.org, or visit our website at www.michiganlegion.org.