WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Halloween is about the candy, the costumes, and making sure you are safe while you are out. For parents, watching your kids wherever they go is important.
Jerry and Marion Bradley own Discount Costumes and Comics in Warner Robins. He says children should not trick-or-treat alone.
"Make sure they're in groups. They're safety in numbers," he said.
According to SafeKids.org, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car or killed on Halloween. This is more than any other day. Bradley says checking children's costumes is a good safety tip to make sure they are not a risk to the child.
"Whether there's a tripping hazard involved, make sure they don't get something that they're going to trip on because it can be kind of silly, kind of crazy with all the kids running around and everything," Bradley said.
The National Safety Council recommends parents should accompany younger children on neighborhood rounds and never let a child enter a stranger's home or car.
Sabrin Howard came to the Warner Robins store to look for a costume for herself and a friend. She says parents should also check all the treats and sweets the kids get.
"Make sure you're checking your baby's candy, make sure the candy is good for them to eat. Make sure it's no poison or nothing," Howard said.
Howard said the Vineville community is also putting on a Halloween event in the neighborhood.
"They have house parties, they have nice decorations, it's just very nice for a family to bring their friends and kids too. It's very nice," Howard said.
Howard said children and parents should check their surroundings and have fun.
SafeKids.org give a list of tips for people participating in the spooky season.
- Carry glow sticks or flashlights, use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and bags, and wear light colors to help kids see and be seen by drivers.
- Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating.
- Slow down and be alert! Turn on headlights early in the day to spot kids from further away.
- Remind kids to cross the street at corners or crosswalks.
- When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls. Choose face paint over masks when possible. Masks can limit children’s vision.
Bradley says their costume store will be open every day and even on Halloween for the late treaters.