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Halloween is coming up pretty soon and I just wanted to write up a quick post, reminding parents to take steps to make sure the kids are safe. You can read my previous post on Halloween and whether or not Christians should celebrate it here.

So aside from that what can you do to make sure the kids are safe? Things are not the same as when many of us were kids and you could just send them off with friends and be confident that they will be ok. It is a whole new world out there unfortunately.

Go With Them

Of course as the kids get older this method loses its appeal to them. But when they are young it should be a no brainer. I like going, especially since I get a portion of the spoils . We make a big night of it and usually meet up with friends and family. This year I am hoping to get a Whoopi Cushion costume I saw! But hopefully you have stayed close with the kids and they don’t mind you tagging along even at an older age.

Lots of Friends

If they are heading out without you, the bigger the group the better. Your kids will be a lot safe when the group is 5-10 kids verses 2-3. Of course you also want to make sure that they are going out with responsible kids. Make sure you know them well. This is a rule in general that should be applied not just for trick or treating.

Light Clothing

Always try to get them wearing light clothing if you can. This of course is easier to see by cars that are driving by. Be creative and try to tie it into the costume some how.

Glow Lights

We always buy some of the glow sticks and necklaces for them. This way they are really bright and easier to see. Again this will help not only with the cars but also if you are with them it makes it easier to keep an eye on them.

Check The Sex Offender List

You can easily check where the sex offenders live in your neighborhood. Look up the addresses so your kids can avoid them. Some cities were requiring sex offenders to put signs on the door notifying kids not to trick or treat there if they were a sex offender. Not sure what areas are still doing that. You can go to this site here to find a list of websites for your state to find the addresses. If you have an iPhone there is an app called Offender Locator. This is a great app especially if you are out there with them or they have an iPhone or iPod to search on. It gives you a map so you know where not to go.

Common Sense

Teach your kids some common sense rules on how to stay safe out there. Avoid the houses with no lights on. Stay away from other groups that may pose a problem. Stay with your friends. Don’t eat opened candy, or any candy until you can inspect it. And NEVER NEVER go into someone’s house.

What are some tips you might have on keeping your kids safe?