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Editorial
Let's make sure Halloween is only scary in a fun way
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Maybe the hundreds of kids who took part in the Gazette’s Halloween Parade Saturday have so many goodies they won’t bother going out for more Thursday night.
If you believe that, let me tell you about some swamp land I have for sale in Florida ...
For safety and simplicity, you might steer your goblins toward a “Trunk or Treat” Halloween night, such as the ones at Memorial United Methodist Church, McCook Community College and the McCook Evangelical Free Church and perhaps others. Kids can have their choice of several treats at one location rather than walking along slippery sidewalks.
If they can’t resist roaming Norris Avenue or other neighborhoods, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services offers some important reminders:
Brighten the night - Carry glow sticks or flashlights to be more visible to drivers. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers.
Steer clear of fire - Wear flame-resistant costumes. Keep candles and jack-o-lanterns away from the path of trick-or-treaters. Consider using battery-operated candles or glow sticks for decorations.
Be costume cautious - Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.
Look out for lenses - Decorative contact lenses can cause infections. Only buy them from a company that sells FDA-cleared or approved contact lenses and requires you to provide a prescription.
Go as a group - Older children who are trick-or-treating should stay with friends on a predetermined route, while younger children should go with a trusted adult. Never enter a stranger’s home or car.
Stay street safe - Put electronic devices down and keep heads up while walking across the street. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them. Use crosswalks whenever possible.
Check the treats - Inspect factory-wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes or tears in wrappers. Avoid eating homemade treats from strangers.
Use extra caution – Drive slowly and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods, looking out for children who may not be looking for you. Pay attention when backing out of driveways.
For more Halloween safety tips, go to: