|
Michael F. Easley
Governor |
State of North Carolina
Office of the Governor |
| For Release: |
IMMEDIATE |
Contact: |
Kasey Bensinger |
| Date: |
October 28, 2002 |
|
(919) 733-5612 |
GOV. EASLEY OFFERS HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS OF TRICK-OR-TREATERS
RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley reminds parents to use caution while supervising trick-or-treaters this Halloween.
"Trick-or-treating can be an exciting and fun way for children to spend the evening on Halloween," said Easley. "If you take precautions and exercise common sense, your children will have a safe and enjoyable night."
Safe Costumes
Make sure costumes are flame-retardant so the little ones are not in danger near burning jack-o-lanterns.
Keep costumes short to prevent trips, falls, and other bumps in the night.
Try make-up instead of a mask. Masks can be hot, uncomfortable, and can obstruct a child's vision -- a dangerous thing when kids are crossing streets and going up and down steps.
Make sure kids wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes.
Trick or treat in groups at familiar houses where the outside lights are on. Parents should go with young children.
Map out a safe route for older children, and set guidelines on which houses they can visit.
Try to get your kids to trick-or-treat while it is still light out.
If trick or treating after dark, children should stay on well lit streets and use flashlights to make sure they are seen.
Check out safe alternatives like trick or treating at the Governor's Mansion, local churches, town halls and shopping centers.
Safe Treats
Give children a snack before they go trick-or-treating to prevent them from eating any treats until they get home.
Inspect all treats before they are eaten.
Allow your children to trick-or-treat only in neighborhoods you know.
Only eat unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. If you have concerns about a piece of candy, throw it out.
Do not forget to inspect fruit and homemade goodies for anything suspicious.
Safe Roads
When driving on Halloween night, be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters.
If you are going to an adult Halloween party, do not drink and drive.
Reminder: Gov. Mike Easley and First Lady Mary Easley invite children of all ages to trick-or-treat at the Governor's Mansion on Halloween night, Thursday (Oct. 31) at 5 p.m.
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