Your Amarillo Halloween Safety Checklist for Trick-or-Treating

We are right around the corner from Halloween in Amarillo, which means all the fun parties will be happening, costume contests at bars and restaurants, and yes, all the trick-or-treaters running around in the streets.

It's the best part of the holiday for the kiddos, and they end up with candy for weeks, even months depending on how fast they eat it. My kids? Yeah, it'll last two months before it's finally gone. When it comes to trick-or-treating, though, there are definitely some rules you should follow to keep them safe while collecting their loot.

Costume Safety

There are a few things you want to be looking out for when it comes to costume safety. First things first, make sure the costume fits properly and doesn't contain a bunch of things they can trip on. Nothing is worse than eating it while you're collecting those little treats to eat afterwards.

It gets dark quickly, and even with bright costumes, it can be tough to see all the kiddos and where they are. Think about putting a couple of reflectors on those costumes to make it easier to see them.

Masks, while fun, can sometimes make it tough for the kiddos to see or even breathe. Think about switching to face paint if you can. Lastly, try to avoid sharp props. I know some costumes require those, but there are ways to make them or find them not sharp. No one wants to get hurt if they trip and fall or someone bumps into you.

Street Safety

So this one kind of goes both ways. If you're driving through a neighborhood, please slow down and pay very close attention. Yes, the kids will be crossing the street and running around, and you may not see it if you're moving too fast.

On that note, for the trick-or-treaters, please stick to sidewalks as much as possible. Don't be walking or wandering around in the street. If you need to cross, do it at a designated crosswalk or at a safe intersection with stop signs.

Walk as a group as often as possible. The more people, the better. Groups are easier to see, and there are more eyes to watch for trouble. Also, bring a flashlight with you or use glow sticks to make it easy for you to see and be seen.

Candy Safety

This is always a big one, right? Back in the day, it was check your candy to see if it's been tampered with. That rule still applies today, so it's smart to not eat any of that candy until you get home, can inspect it, and make sure nothing is spoiled, tampered with, or unwrapped.

Always check the labels for allergy concerns. The last thing you want is your kiddo eating something that will trigger an allergy. If you have a young kiddo, check for those hard candies and choking hazards. Halloween always brings those out.

Last, but definitely not least, make sure you feed the kiddos a good meal before hitting the streets. If their tummies are full, they will be less inclined to overindulge in the candy on their journey collecting or when they get home.

Trick Or Treat Etiquette

Yes, there is such a thing as etiquette when it comes to trick or treating. Things such as only going to houses where the front porch light is on. It's not always a fail-safe, but most homes with the front porch light on mean they are participating in handing out treats. Also, only accept candy on the porch; don't go inside if someone invites you in.

The rule when it comes to reaching into the candy basket is to grab only one piece of candy. Some will say grab a handful, and if they do, go for it! Otherwise, stick to just one piece. Always say trick or treat and thank you once you've received some candy. Remember, no one has to give you candy, so be polite...and have fun!