Description

In this child's safety video learn the tips that will keep your child safe when trick or treating this Halloween.

Transcript

Ann Harkins: Hi! I am Ann Harkins, President and CEO of the National Crime Prevention Council, home of McGruff The Crime Dog. I am here today with my pal McGruff to talk about trick-or-treat safety. Halloween is a fun time in the year, when we get to dress and eat a lot of candy. There are also a few safety tips you need to remember. Trick-or-treat at your local mall or in your own neighborhood. Consider going with your children when they trick-or-treat. If that's not possible plan ahead and make sure they go with friends or older siblings. Be sure your children and teenagers carry a flashlight, a glow stick or a reflective candy bag. That makes them clearly visible to others, especially if they are trick-or-treating at night. Secure emergency identification, name, address and phone number discretely in their Halloween costumes. Remind kids not to enter a strange house or car. And be sure, they don't accept bribes from people in the neighborhood unless they cleared it with you first. If your kids are older, be sure that you map out a safe route with them, so you know where they are at all times. Remind your kids and especially your teens not to take shortcuts through alleys, backyards or playing fields. Never go out trick-or-treating alone. Whether you are a second grader or a seventh grader, there is always safety in numbers. One last thing, check all treats at home in a place where there is lots of light and be sure your kids know not to eat their treats until they get home. Giving your kids a good substantial dinner before they leave can help make the candy less tempting while they are out trick-or-treating. Be safe, have a good time and I hope you bring home lots of goodies. If you are interested in more safety tips and some fun coloring pages and Halloween activities for your kids, please visit ncpc.org. At the National Crime Prevention Council we are committed to protecting children and youth. Think of us as your resource to help keep your families safe. In our next video, we will discuss ways to make the right decisions about choosing a Halloween costume.