Trick or Treating tips

Straight from the Kennewick Police Dept.

• CHOOSE bright, flame-retardant costumes or add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags so children are easily seen in the dark. In addition, carry a glow stick or flashlight.

• PLAN a trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets. Avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods, streets that are isolated, or homes that are poorly lit inside or outside.

• NEVER send young children out alone. They should always be accompanied by a parent or another trusted adult. Older children should always travel in groups.

• ALWAYS walk younger children to the door to receive treats and don’t let children enter a home unless you are with them.
• DISCUSS basic pedestrian safety rules that children should use when walking to and from houses.

• MAKE sure children know their home phone number and address in case you get separated. Teach children how to call 911 in an emergency.

• REMIND children to remain alert and report suspicious incidents to parents and/or law enforcement.

• Wait and children eat their candy after they are home and you can inspect it in a well-lighted place. One way to keep them from eating candy on the go is to feed them a meal or snack beforehand.

• DON’T eat unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers and inspect fruit and homemade goodies for anything suspicious. Remind children not to eat everything at once or they’ll be feeling pretty ghoulish for awhile!

Last, parents and children can avoid trick-or-treating trouble entirely by organizing a home or community party as an alternative to “trick-or-treating.”