Trick-or-Treating Tips from the American Humane Association

Denver (October 22, 2009)

“Trick-or-Treat!” The phrase has been used for decades as wide-eyed children eagerly hold out pumpkin pails, plastic bags or pillowcases to receive candy from neighbors — many of whom are strangers. It is a fun tradition for both children and adults, but simple and important precautions should be taken to ensure a safe Halloween experience for all. Please consider these safety tips from the American Humane Association:

Children should always be supervised by an adult while trick-or-treating.
Carefully inspect each piece of candy. Only allow children to eat candy that is wrapped — never give candy to a child if the wrapper has been opened or is torn.
Never let children go into someone’s house or car, even if invited. Explain your reasons why ahead of time so children are prepared to say “no” if asked.
Always stay in well-lit areas — don’t travel off the beaten path. Try to stay on sidewalks, go to well-lit houses and always go to the front door.
Make sure your children are carrying a flashlight or glow stick, or make sure there is reflective tape on costumes to ensure that they are visible to cars and other trick-or-treaters.
Don’t put out jack-o’-lanterns with real candles, as costumes might get caught in the flame. Safe, battery-operated tea lights can be used instead.
Have fun buying or making your kids’ costumes, but be sure they are flame resistant, allow the wearer to see clearly, and do not pose a tripping hazard.

If you are not comfortable taking your children around the neighborhood to trick-or-treat, there are several alternatives you can consider, such as:

Trick-or-treating at your local mall, community center or other public location. Watch your local TV news or newspaper for information.
Throw a Halloween party for your family and friends. Plan fun games and give away prizes —you could even invite neighbors!
Organize a neighborhood or school Halloween parade where kids and adults can show off their costumes and decorate spooky wagons or bicycles.

The Children’s Division of American Humane is a national leader in developing programs, policies, training, research and evaluation, and cutting-edge initiatives to prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect. At the same time, the organization works to strengthen families and communities and enhance child-protection systems at the state and county levels. For more information, please visit http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-children.

The American Humane Association wishes everyone safe and happy trick-or-treating this Halloween. For more information about American Humane, go to www.americanhumane.org. Follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/americanhumane), MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/americanhumane) or Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/AmericanHumane). The information contained in this release may be reused and posted with proper credit given to the American Humane Association.

About American Humane

Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane develops policies, legislation, curricula and training programs to protect children and animals from abuse, neglect and exploitation. The nonprofit organization, headquartered in Denver, raises awareness about The Link® between violence to people and violence to animals, as well as the benefits derived from the human-animal bond. American Humane’s regional office in Los Angeles is the exclusive authority behind the “No Animals Were Harmed”® end-credit disclaimer on film and TV productions, and American Humane’s office in Washington, D.C., is an advocate for child and animal protection at the federal and state levels. The American Humane® Certified™ farm animal program is the nation’s original independent certification and labeling program for humanely raised food (www.thehumanetouch.org). American Humane meets the strong, comprehensive standards of the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance, has been awarded the Independent Charities of America’s “Best in America” Seal of Approval, has met the stringent standards for financial efficiency and accountability required by the American Institute of Philanthropy to qualify as a Top-Rated Charity, and has received a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s premier independent charity evaluator. Visit www.americanhumane.org to learn more.

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