Read more: Eight tips for keeping kids safe on Halloween
Halloween, one of a kid's favorite holidays of the year, is fast approaching. But do you know how to keep your kids safe?
Here is a list of the best practices for Halloween holiday safety that will do the "trick," courtesy of the Cobb County Government and Marietta Police Department.
Make sure your kids are visible. Have your kids use flashlights, light-up shoes or reflective tape to make sure they stand out in the dark. On a budget? Glow bands and glow sticks are a fun, inexpensive alternative.
Accompany young children. Encourage them to stay together and prevent them from dashing out in the middle of the street in front of cars.
Think before you drive. Do not drive drunk or in a costume. Halloween is the number two holiday for DUI, second only to New Year's Eve, according to the city of Marietta. Have a designated driver or call a taxi cab or Uber.
Be respectful of neighbors! Use driveways instead of cutting through yards. If houses have no decorations or their lights are off, don't ring their doorbell. They probably do not want to partake in the festivities. Never enter someone's house for any reason.
For older children who plan to trick-or-treat without a parent, make sure you all agree on a plan, schedule and curfew. "Make sure they keep a cell phone on them and remind them to never enter anyone's home or vehicle," the Cobb County Government says.
Inspect candy before a child eats it.
Be wary of crime. A fun holiday like Halloween can turn into a negative experience if someone makes a unlawful decision. A teenage "prank" may be a crime with permanent and serious consequences.
From the Cobb County Government:
The more common acts, toilet papering yards and throwing eggs at neighbors' homes are considered Criminal Trespass, a misdemeanor offense. More serious acts such as throwing eggs or rocks at moving vehicles or setting fire to objects in someone's yard are felony offenses and can have lifelong consequences for a teen's college and job prospects. If a teenager 17 years and older commits these crimes, they will often be arrested and taken to adult jail where they will have to post bond.
“On Halloween, we have officers designated to certain nights to show a presence and be seen if anyone needs help," said Brittany Wallace, public information officer for the city of Marietta. “If your children get lost or are in a questionable area, don’t be afraid to call the police.”
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