Before kids knock on a door this Halloween, it’s important to have the right costume.
Theresa Davis who manages the Halloween Express on Two Notch Road in Columbia says there are plenty of hazard-free costumes to go around this year.
"You always want to make sure there are no extra pieces that can get in the children’s mouth, which on ours in the toddler's there is not. Everything is attached to the costume itself,” Davis said.
She also encourages parents to make sure the costume fits properly. “Make sure that they can see really well out of what you choose for them and just making sure, it's not too long, so they don't fall and that kind of thing,” Davis said.
Major Jackie Brothers with the West Columbia Police Department says kids should avoid strangers.
"Don't let your children go trick or treating alone, make sure they have an adult with them, if they're older children make sure they at least go with a buddy and that you have a pre-planned route that they stick to. Only go to houses where the lights are on, and don't go to houses of strangers,” Brothers said.
Brothers also suggests the kids bring along a cell phone to call for help in case they get into a scary spot.
Halloween Safety Tips:
* | Young children should never go trick-or-treating alone. They should always have an adult with them. |
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* | Older children should use the "buddy system." They should have a pre-planned route that they have discussed with an adult and have an agreed upon time to return home. |
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* | If children are going out alone, make sure they have a cell phone or other way to contact help if they should run into a problem. |
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* | Make sure all costumes have reflective markings, and use caution in traffic areas. |
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* | An adult should check all treats before children consume them. |
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* | Children should never go into a house or car to get treats from anyone. |
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* | Don't approach strange animals. |
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* | Only visit houses of people that you know and trust. |
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* | Trick-or-treaters should only go to houses that have porch lights on. |
For more safety tips and Halloween events, visit the WACH.com Halloween Happenings section.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH