Halloween 2012

Pumpkin Have fun and stay safe on Halloween!

NOTE: Halloween is a community celebration, not something that Fairfax County Government plans or controls like other jurisdictions around the country. Trick or treating generally occurs in our community Oct. 31. If trick or treating happens in your neighborhood, please be safe around any downed trees wet leaves (especially for little princesses in slippers!) or other debris due to Hurricane Sandy.

Safe Trick or Treating Tips

Don’t let the excitement of Halloween allow your children to ignore the normal safety precautions: Do not talk to strangers; do not go into homes or cars of people they do not know; and do not approach animals they do not know. Make sure children know their name, phone number and address and to provide this information to a police officer in an emergency or if they are lost.
Younger children should have an adult with them while older children should provide their route and when they expect to return. If possible, provide a cell phone for your children.
Children should only visit homes that have their porch lights on.
Inspect your children’s candy before they eat it. Although food tampering is rare, it’s safest to eat only those candies that are individually wrapped and not homemade, unless you know the families who have prepared the homemade treats.
Have flashlights or glowsticks for children and/or for the accompanying adult.
Adults are reminded not to drink alcohol and drive.

Safe Costume Tips

Make sure your child’s Halloween costume is made with fire retardant materials and has eye holes large enough for your child to safely see out of. The costume should be short enough so it doesn’t interfere with walking.
If your child carries an accessory, such as a fake sword, make sure it’s made from a flexible material such as rubber, so it cannot injure your child or others.
Consider using makeup on children’s faces instead of a mask to allow the child to see clearly.