Ocean County Health Department Contact: Leslie Terjesen
PO Box 2191 Public Information Officer
Toms River, NJ 08754-2191 732-341-9700, ext. 7224
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: October 23, 2015
TRICK OR TREAT SAFETY
“Halloween is a fun time for children, who can dress up in costumes, enjoy parties, and eat special treats. These celebrations also provide a chance to give out healthy snacks, get physical activity, and focus on safety,” said Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health.
Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator, said, “Following the listed safety rules can help ensure a safer, healthier and happier Trick-or-Treat evening for your children and for you:’
- Swords, knives, and other costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.
- Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
- Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
- Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.
- Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always WALK and don't run from house to house.
- Always test make-up in a small area first to check for allergies. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
- Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
- Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
- Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.
- Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
- Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Never accept rides from strangers.
- Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
Halloween is a good time to offer healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as low-calorie treats and drinks. Make sure you keep your sidewalk and steps free of obstacles that could result in falls and make sure your front lights are on. Make sure if you are driving on Trick-or-Treat, you keep an eye out for children who are trick-or-treating. Many young children are out earlier while people may be returning home from work for the day.
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