MADISON, Wis. — Halloween is a great opportunity for kids and adults to have a scary good time. ReadyWisconsin wants everyone to creep it real and have some spooktacular fun, while also making sure the stay safe and trick-free this October.
Before you head out, ReadyWisconsin offers the following tips for Halloween:
Know when to go — Halloween falls on a Thursday this year and many communities may hold trick-or-treat times on the weekend before the holiday instead of on Oct. 31. In addition, many businesses offer special trick-or-treat events. Check local information sites or media outlets to find the official times for your area.
Never go alone — Children under the age of 12 should always have an adult with them. Children over the age of 12 should walk in groups or with a trusted adult. Trick-or-treaters should only go to well-lit homes and never accept rides from strangers.
Make yourself seen — If walking around after dark, everyone in your group should have a flashlight or light stick with them while walking. Add reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you while walking along darkened streets.
Check treats before eating — An adult should inspect all candy and other treats for tampering, choking hazards and potential allergens. Do not eat homemade treats made by strangers.
Avoid fire and safety hazards — Make sure costumes (including masks, beards and wigs) are flame resistant. Stay away from long trailing fabric to prevent falls, and wear well-fitting masks to avoid blocked vision. Use a flashlight or battery-operated candle to light jack-o-lanterns, instead of a candle.
Watch the roads — Drivers should be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters walking on roadways, medians, and curbs. Know when people will be out in your community and drive with caution when going through neighborhoods.
For safety information all year, visit ReadyWisconsin at https://readywisconsin.wi.gov.
You can also follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/readywisconsin) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/readywisconsin).
