Halloween Safety Month

By Diane Forrest,

If you go down to the woods today

You're sure of a big surprise

If you go down to the woods today

You better go in disguise

This was from a song that was written in the 1930's.  I remember it from an old black and white cartoon with I think Felix the cat?  Not sure about that, but the song is called Teddy Bear's Picnic.  The cartoon showed this cat carrying a jack-o-lantern walking through the woods.  His knees were shaking; the trees had come alive, and were watching him, for a little girl, that was pretty scary.

Of course the world was simpler back then.  We didn’t have the fears that lurk today.  Going out on Halloween night was a fun occasion.  We would dress up in our costumes, and were only allowed to go our street.  Nearly every house participated in handing out treats to the witches and ghosts, and we were never afraid of what would be in our bags.  Well except from the stomach ache from eating as much as we could.  The world is a little bigger now, and there are some necessary precautions that you need to know to be able to have a safe, happy Halloween.  I have listed them below:

• Always use common sense;
• Young children should always go trick-or-treating with an adult;
• Never trick-or-treat alone. Have at least 2 buddies go with you;
• Plan your entire route and make sure your family knows what it is;
• Make sure that you are wearing a flame retardant costume;
• Wait until you get home and your parents check your candy before you eat it;
• Be very cautious of strangers;
• Accept treats only in the doorway. Never go inside a house;
• Be sure and say thank you for your treats;
• Don't play near lit jack-o-lanterns;
• Visit only houses where the lights are on;
• Walk, Do not run;
• Walk on sidewalks and driveways;
• Cross the street at the corner or in a crosswalk;
• Take a cellular phone and watch with you if possible;
• Carry a flashlight;
• Wear costumes with reflective markings, and bright colors;
• Costumes should not drag the floor; and
• Costumes should be made of flame-resistant material.

These days many area schools and churches and even malls host Halloween events to keep Halloween fun and safe for families.  This year have a wonderful night of making memories with your children, but remember to be alert and stay safe!

Happy Halloween!