Halloween is just around the corner, and while it’s a time for fun and festivities, safety is always a priority—especially for children and families going trick-or-treating. The Harrisburg International Airport Police Department has compiled a list of important safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe and spooky holiday.
For Children and Parents:
- Costume Safety:
- Add reflective tape to costumes or have your child carry glow sticks or flashlights to stay visible.
- Swap out masks that obstruct vision for non-toxic face paint or makeup.
- Make sure costumes fit well to prevent tripping or getting caught on objects.
- Trick-or-Treating Rules:
- Children should always be accompanied by an adult or responsible teenager.
- Stick to sidewalks and crosswalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
- Choose familiar, well-lit areas and avoid houses with their lights off.
- Never enter a home or car for treats unless with a trusted adult.
- Check Treats:
- Inspect all candy before eating. Discard any unwrapped, tampered, or suspicious items.
- Avoid homemade treats from strangers.
For Drivers:
- Drive with Extra Caution:
- Slow down in residential areas, especially during prime trick-or-treating hours (5:30 PM – 9:30 PM).
- Be on the lookout for children crossing streets, often in dark costumes.
- Avoid distractions, like your mobile phone, while driving.
- Turn on Headlights Early:
- Keep headlights on earlier in the evening to increase visibility for pedestrians.
For Homeowners:
- Create a Safe Environment:
- Make sure your porch, steps, and walkways are well-lit and clear of tripping hazards.
- Keep pets indoors to prevent accidents or scaring trick-or-treaters.
- Hand Out Safe Treats:
- Only distribute store-bought, individually wrapped candy.
- Keep Halloween decorations away from areas where children might trip.
General Safety:
- Emergency Contact Info:
- Ensure your child knows their home phone number and how to dial 911 in case of an emergency.
- Neighborhood Safety:
- Many communities use neighborhood apps or local social media groups to report suspicious activity or to coordinate safe trick-or-treat routes. Get involved to keep your neighborhood safe!
By following these simple tips, we can ensure a fun and safe Halloween for everyone in the community. Harrisburg International Airport is proud to partner with our local police department to keep families safe during the spooky season.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!
Stay tuned for more insights into the inner workings of our airport in future blog posts!