Halloween Guide 2016 in Fairfax County: Costume and Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- Fairfax County has put together some tips to help residents enjoy and be safe during Halloween, coming up on Monday, Oct. 31. Even if you don't plan to celebrate, there's information here from Fairfax County that's good for all to know:

When is trick or treating? Some communities, cities and counties designate a specific time and sometimes a day other than Oct. 31 for trick-or-treating. Fairfax County Government does not set a different date. Halloween is Monday, Oct. 31. Your homeowners association or apartment complex may set times for events, but neighborhood trick-or-treating is generally the evening of Oct. 31.

Costume safety tips:

• Make sure trick-or-treaters can be seen by wearing something reflective or carrying a flashlight or glow stick.
• 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.

Trick-or-treating safety tips:

• Children should only visit homes that have their porch lights on.
• Inspect your children’s candy before they eat it — especially for any food allergies.
• Make sure children know their phone number and address — and to provide this information to a police officer in an emergency or if lost.
• Stay on sidewalks and avoid walking in streets, if possible. Cross streets only at the corner and never cross between parked vehicles or mid-block.
• And when trick-or-treating, use battery-powered lights, keep your devices charged and pick a place to meet if you get lost.

Safety tips for older ghosts:

• Drive below the posted speed limit in residential areas on Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31. This will give you time to brake if you see a child dart in front of you.
• When giving candy, consider treats without nuts and other common food allergies. Here are some quick Halloween food safety tips.

Do you have an Halloween event not listed here? Post it in the Comments box below the story.PHOTO: Patch file photo