October 24, 2008

Health Tip: Trick-or-Treating Safely

(HealthDay News) -- Halloween can be great fun for children and parents alike. But parents still need to enforce some rules to help ensure a safe night of trick-or-treating.

The National Safety Council offers this advice:

• Children under age 12 should always be accompanied by an adult.
• Develop a neighborhood route for children to follow. It should only include well-lit areas with which children are familiar.
• Make sure children understand they should never go into a stranger's home, and that they should only approach houses that are well-lit.
• Decide what time your child will return home, and tell them not to eat any candy before they get home.
• Make sure your child understands traffic safety rules.
• In case the child gets separated from a group, attach a piece of paper to your child's costume with his or her name, address and phone number.

-- Diana Kohnle

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