DA Rice Offers Tips for a Safe and Spooky Halloween

Following a few simple guidelines will ensure a happy and healthy start to the holiday season

MINEOLA, NY – Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice announced today that in addition to the costumes, candy, and cavities, it is important to be aware of a few simple tips to ensure a safe and fun-filled Halloween.

• Make sure your child has a costume that is safe and flame-retardant. Children should be able to move freely in the costume without danger of tripping and falling, and be able to see clearly.
• Instead of masks, consider non-toxic face paint. Attach reflective tape to costumes so drivers can easily see them and carry flashlights. Any costume props, such as devil forks or fake swords, should be flexible and have no sharp points.
• Trick-or-treat with a large group of people and make sure that adults are present at all times. Stop only at familiar houses in the neighborhood and avoid shortcuts through alleys or parking lots. There is safety in numbers.
• Instruct children not to eat any candy until their parents have a chance to inspect it. Do not allow children to eat any item that is unwrapped or homemade.
• Children should never enter someone’s home unless they are accompanied by an adult.
• Walk on the sidewalk and cross streets only at intersections. Obey all traffic rules.
• Stay away from strangers, houses without lights on, and unknown animals.

• Clear your sidewalk and walkway of any obstructions. Children often rush from house to house, so any tripping hazards (flower pots, toys, lawn furniture) should be moved out of harm’s way.

• Thrown items like eggs and water balloons can cause cuts, bruises, and more significant injuries to the face, especially the eyes. Causing injury to another, causing damage to property, and vandalism are taken very seriously by law enforcement, and can all lead to arrest and prosecution.
• If your child or teenager is attending a Halloween party, find out who will be attending, what adults will be present, and establish a curfew.

“Halloween is a very special time of year when children can dress up, join their friends, and have fun,” Rice said. “It is important as parents and caregivers, that we do everything in our power to ensure that all children have as safe a Halloween as possible.”