Safety tips for kids going trick-or-treating

Ghosts, vampires and scary monsters aren’t the only things to be wary of when you are out trick-or-treating on Oct. 31, accidents and unfortunate mishaps increase dramatically on Halloween.

To help keep children safe while out trick-or-treating, and avoid potential hazards, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office recommends parents follow the basic precautions below. Some are commonly known child safety tips, while others focus on the possibility of victimization on an evening when thousands of children may be walking in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

The sheriff’s office urges parents to communicate with their children about prevention and detection of potential dangerous situations throughout the entire year. Have a plan for what your child should do if they become separated. Discuss with your child before heading out.

Always trick-or- treat with an adult. Don’t allow a child to go outside alone;

Accompany children to the door of every house they approach;

Stay outside. Never enter a home or apartment without adult supervision;

Children should not approach any vehicle, occupied or not;

Remain visible. Wear bright clothing or use reflective strips on costumes. Carry a glow stick or flashlight;

Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations. Look in all directions before crossing, walk on sidewalks, and obey traffic signals and stop signs. Always walk; never run across streets or lawns.

With all the extra pedestrian traffic on Halloween, drivers are reminded to be extra cautious at all times by eliminating distractions

Children should be warned to never approach a house that is not well lighted and does not have a porch light or outside light on

Do not go onto properties that are marked “Keep Out”, “No Trespassing”, and “No Solicitors Allowed.”

Never eat any treat until it is thoroughly checked by an adult. Dispose of anything that seems to have been tampered with, has been opened, or isn’t wrapped.

Children should immediately report to their parents and/or law enforcement if they see or experience anything suspicious. Instruct children to shout for help and make a scene if anyone tries to grab them or force them into involuntary situations.