Trick or Trouble - HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
It’s not just the trick or treating that makes Halloween fun for me, it’s also my birthday! In case you are wondering the answer is YES, I even have a black cat. My husband is one of the few men that can say he’s married to a real witch and get away with it!
As a child I spent my birthdays trick or treating & as an adult I walked with the kids as they went door to door. The number one rule for us was only going to houses that had their lights on. Well times have definitely changed and I want to share some safety tips with you that you may have not thought about.
1. Before you head out knocking on doors take time to check the national sex offender registry for your neighborhood or the area where you will be trick or treating.
- Most local city & county agencies have this information available.
- Avoid these homes
- If you know a home is registered to a sex offender & they have lights on and decorations out, report them to local authorities immediately!
2. Parents - always carry a flashlight & peppers spray with you.
3. When picking a costume with a mask check the following:
- Can you easily see out of it?
- Can it be quickly removed?
- Is it well ventilated for easy breathing?
4. Does your costume have a bottom?
- Is it easy to walk in?
- If it’s adult costume, can you drive in it?
5. If kids are uncomfortable going to a house because it looks too spooky walk up with them but never force them to go alone.
6. NEVER enter anyone’s home to accept candy even if it’s just for a minute. Always wait outside.
7. Respect people’s personal space and don’t let anyone within your personal space.
- Just because it’s Halloween doesn’t mean it’s ok to walk up to just anyone.
- If you are uncomfortable be sure to keep your distance or ask that person to step back.
8. Be mindful/respectful of what time it is.
- If it’s 10:00 pm & the trick or treaters are long gone, don’t open your door to a random knock.
9. ALWAYS walk in groups or pairs. It’s never safe to walk alone.
10. Check all candy/items before eating them.
- Only eat factory wrapped candy.
- When in doubt, throw it out!
For more information about Simple Self Defense for Women® Guest Speaking, Workshops, DVD’s, Security Products or how to bring us to your campus visit www.simpleselfdefenseforwomen.com
Tracy Vega, Co-Founder- Simple Self Defense for Women®
Tracy Vega, mom, wife, visionary, community leader and entrepreneur is the co-founder of Simple Self Defense for Women® an award winning company that promotes the personal safety of women and children with a focus on how to to prevent, avoid and ESCAPE a potential attack, threat or abduction. NBC affiliate WESH News calls her a guru of women’s self defense.