5 Tips To Keep Trick-Or-Treaters Safe

A clear field of vision is key for kids—and adults—to safely enjoy Halloween festivities.

It’s all fun and games until—well, you know how the saying goes. Participating in a Halloween activity, whether it’s trick-or-treating or marching in a ragamuffin parade, should be all fun without any real frights. But because accidents happen, adults should be extra cautious when their costumed kids are running around in their quest for candy and goodies.

Below are five safety reminders focusing on vision and visibility, including advice from Bergenfield-based optometrist James Dello Russo and Raymond Guidetti, director of the Hackensack Police Department (HPD), for parents and their children to consider this Halloween.

Don’t make mask mistakes. If your little one is wearing a mask, be sure it has large openings so your kid can see, breathe, hear and speak. “Masks can block peripheral vision…and running around in the dark is a set up for trips and falls,” warns Dello Russo. Children who wear eyeglasses to see should keep them as part of the costume, he adds. “Dress them up and make it fun but ensure they’re still wearing what they need to see!”

Use props properly. It’s true that every Jedi needs a lightsaber, and all ninjas carry a sword, but these costume accessories pose a risk, particularly if they’re used near one’s eyes. Dello Russo reminds parents to tell children to “point any props away from the face” and that they don’t use sharp or pointed objects.

Go easy on the glitter. Sure, the sparkly stuff enhances a costume, but the makeup is generally not formulated for the eye, Dello Russo says. “Be careful when you apply it,” he says. “This counts for fake eyelashes, lash glue glitter, glitz and other heavier Halloween makeup.”

Don’t go dark. Though witches and warlocks wear black, the dark costumes are ideal for daytime activities. When worn in the dark during prime trick-or-treating hours, the costumes are difficult for motorists to see. Kids in black and dark attire should apply reflective tape to their costumes and bags. Trick-or-treaters should also carry glowsticks or flashlights.

Light the way. It’s already tough to see in the dark, and wearing a mask makes it more difficult. The HPD advises homeowners who are expecting trick-or-treaters to turn on their exterior lights and ensure their walkways and driveways are well lit.

Do you have additional Halloween safety tips? Share them with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.