Five tips for safe trick-or-treating from First 5 San Bernardino

*First 5 San Bernardino gave away Halloween safety reflector bags, books and sweet treats for those who brought their costume-wearing children to their office in San Bernardino.*

Halloween is a magical time for little ones – full of costumes, candy and fun. But for parents of children ages 0-5, ensuring their safety is a top priority while trick-or-treating. Here are five tips from First 5 San Bernardino to help keep your little mermaid, Spiderman or superhero safe and happy during spooky season.

1. Choose Safe, Comfortable and Not-Too-Scary Costumes

When picking a costume for your little one, make sure it’s not just cute, but also safe. Avoid costumes that are too long, which could cause tripping, and steer clear of masks that block vision. Instead, opt for face paint or hats that fit snugly. And at a young age, be careful of being too scary! If you’re out after dark, consider costumes with reflective materials or add glow sticks to the outfit for better visibility.

2. Stay Close and Supervise at All Times

Children under five should never trick-or-treat alone. Hold their hand and stay close to them as they explore. Watch out for uneven pavement or other obstacles that could cause them to stumble.

3. Use a Stroller for Little Ones

If you’re taking a baby or toddler out, consider using a stroller for part of the evening. This can be especially helpful if your child gets tired or overwhelmed by scary decorations. A stroller also provides a safe space to keep them secure in crowded areas. You can even decorate it with Halloween lights to make it fun and visible!

4. Sort Through Candy Together!

Here’s a classic #SpookyTip that’s a great reminder every year. Small children may be eager to dig into their candy haul, but it’s important to inspect everything first. Look out for choking hazards like hard candy, gum or toys.

5. Map a Safe Trick-or-Treating Route

Before you head out, plan a short, manageable route that avoids busy streets and long distances. For toddlers, a couple of blocks may be plenty! Or even better, consider the popular “trunk-or-treat” events at a local school, church or community center. Trick-or-treat early in the evening when it’s still light out to reduce the risk of accidents and make the experience less stressful for both you and your little one.

With a few simple precautions, you can make Halloween fun, safe and memorable. Happy trick-or-treating from First 5 San Bernardino, and make sure to share your kiddo’s Halloween costumes by tagging us @First5SanBernardino on Instagram and Facebook!

1. Choose Safe, Comfortable and Not-Too-Scary Costumes

2. Stay Close and Supervise at All Times

3. Use a Stroller for Little Ones

4. Sort Through Candy Together!

5. Map a Safe Trick-or-Treating Route

Additional County Update News – October 31, 2024