HOUSTON – Halloween is just a week away, but are you and your kids ready?
Whether you’re giving out candy or trick-or-treating with the kids, Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious has some advice on enjoying Halloween safely.
First, have a family plan!
Ask yourself these questions if your kiddos are going out.
- Who is going tricker-or-treating?
- How old are they? Are the kids mature enough to be on their own?
- Are they going alone with friends or with parents?
- What type of neighborhood are they walking around in? Is it a “generally speaking safe area?” Is it a crowded area? NOTE: Pedestrians being hit or killed by cars is the #1 risk on Halloween.
- Will it be dark or light? And if it’s dark are the costumes well-lit and/or do they have a light with them?
- Beware of opened packages or loose candy that is given to you. Fentanyl-laced products are a concern, especially for older kids having fun and exploring on Halloween.
- Is there a plan if lost or separated from their friends?
What kids should do when they approach a house?
- Take candy appropriately and don’t take anything that’s opened or tampered with.
- NEVER go into anyone’s house or follow people you don’t know to an unknown location.
- Be mindful of people following you or trying to walk with you, and know when to get a trusted adult involved
- No need to be paranoid but have safety destination points along the way. Just think them out and have them in the back of your mind.
- Be VERY careful of people approaching you with items especially pills or odd-looking candy (issue of Snapchat and SnapMap)
- Be willing to help other kids in need
But what if you’re not trick-or-treating?
Maybe you’re giving candy out. According to Rania, here are some things you can do to make your home safe for you and your guests.
- Have your house well-lit.
- Clear the driveway or pathway to your home.
- Candy should be wrapped and stay away from nuts!
- Keep dogs inside.
- NEVER invite kids in.
These are just several of the safety points Rania shared. Watch her full interview in the video above.
For more safety tips, visit the Crime Stoppers website.