You probably know these already, but nothing wrong with a friendly reminder!

If you’re one of the millions of families participating in the modern version of All Hallow’s Eve, then it’s important to heed some common sense safety tips courtesy of the Canada Safety Council and Canadian Red Cross.

Here are the Top 10 Tips from the Safety Council:

1. Children should be accompanied by an adult.
2. Children should wear clothing that can easily be seen at night. Retro-reflective materials are best.
3. Children should trick or treat in one well-known area and not wander into unknown neighborhoods.
4. All candy should be inspected by an adult to make sure that no one has tampered with it. If it looks suspicious, the police should be contacted.
5. Children should avoid stray animals.
6. Children should wear masks that do not interfere with vision. Better yet, they can avoid masks by wearing makeup.
7. Children should watch for moving vehicles when crossing streets.
8. Costumes should be short enough that the child will not trip.
9. Trick or treaters should dress appropriately for the weather and carry a flashlight.
10. For extra safety, organize a Halloween party for children in your neighbourhood.

The Canadian Red Cross shares many of these tips and some of their own . . .

• Costumes should be light-coloured and flame resistant with reflective strips so that children are more easily seen at night.  (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards, and brooms, too!)
• Costumes should be short enough to avoid tripping.
• Remind children to keep away from open fires and candles. (Costumes can be extremely flammable.)
• Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover the eyes.
• Remind children to walk, slither, and sneak on sidewalks – not in the street.
• Explain to children that calls should be made along one side of the street first and then the other, and that it’s best to cross the street only at intersections or crosswalks.
• Remind children to look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks, and low-flying brooms.
• Provide yourself or the children with a flashlight to see better and to be better seen.
• Have children plan their route and share it with you and the family. 
• Trick or Treaters should travel in groups of four or five.  Young children should be accompanied by an adult.
• Visit homes that have the porch light on.
• Make sure children know they should accept treats at the door and must not get into cars or enter the homes or apartments of strangers.
• Remind children not to eat their treats and goodies until they are examined by an adult at home.  And candy should not be eaten if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.
• Make sure you and your children know where the Block Parent houses are located in the neighborhood.
• Set agreed-to boundaries with your children.  Explain the importance of staying within them and arriving home on time.

Have fun trick-or-treating and always remember to be safe!