TIPS FOR HAVING A TERRIFICALLY TERRIFYING AND SAFE HALLOWEEN

Kensington and Talmadge certainly get in the spirit of Halloween, welcoming hundreds of children of all ages! I, personally, miss the days of walking my children around Talmadge starting at dusk with our neighborhood friends, seeing how far we could get until the bag got too heavy with candy. But I also recall it was sometimes a bit dangerous with cars and chaos in the air.

Below are a few safety tips for all that I would like to share:

1. Light up your walkway: If you are giving out treats on All Hallow’s Eve,

be sure to light up your walkway leading up to your door. This will not only

let the trick-or-treaters know you are “open for business”, but it will also

help visitors see obstacles that may otherwise be a tripping hazard.

2. Make sure you can see the people coming up to your door: Isn’t it

strange that on this evening, we just open our doors to complete strangers

throughout the night. I always suggest hanging out at the front porch with

your light on so you can see all the kids, and any other people, as they

approach.

3. Bring a flashlight and glow sticks: Talmadge and Kensington have

beautiful street lighting, but some corners of the neighborhoods are still

dark. Have kids use glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen

by drivers.

4. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if

possible, choose light colors. Since masks can sometimes obstruct a child’s

vision, try non-toxic face paint and makeup whenever possible.

5. If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that

is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.

6. Keep our neighborhoods clean: Every November 1st, the roads are strewn

with candy wrappers. Encourage neighbors and local children to participate

in a quick street clean up and show that neighborhood pride!

I hope everyone enjoys this special holiday and all the festivities that go along with it! There are tons of great Halloween-themed events throughout San Diego this month!