Stay Safe this Halloween!

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Eugene Brown

Eugene’s pumpkins that sit outside his house waiting for trick-or-treaters.

JJ Gardner and Eugene Brown

It’s essential that you and your friends stay safe this Halloween. Trick-or-treating in the wrong neighborhood could lead to unwanted situations. Everyone loves to get candy, hang with friends, and dress up, but not everyone is as trustworthy as they seem.   

There are many ways to stay safe and have fun on Halloween. Make sure to stick with your friends or family when it is dark. If you get lost, it will be tough to locate your surroundings without the help of daylight. Be sure to bring a flashlight or something else to ensure you can find your way back. “The latest you should stay out is 10-11pm or you might get lost in the dark,” Brady Price explained.

Next, make sure to get a costume that doesn’t affect your ability to walk, move, or breathe. A costume that you can see out of and people can see you in is ideal. In case of an emergency, people need to be able to identify you quickly.

Another way you can be safe this Halloween is to be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for cars or bikes when crossing the street. If you see a suspicious vehicle, such as one following or being extremely close, get away as fast as possible. Parker Foley, a 7th grader from West Middle School, added, “You should never talk to strangers on the sidewalk, especially people that look suspicious.” Stay away from people who want you to do something for them, such as giving them money or getting in their car.

Never go anywhere alone, especially at night. Make sure to have a friend or family member with you at all times, even though the promise of candy can make it tempting to run off by yourself to get to the next house. Evan Montgomery informed, “You should stick together with your group if you are going trick or treating.”

Never, ever eat a piece of candy that has already been opened. All sorts of things can be added to make it dangerous. Check to see if the packaging has been tampered with, or has a weird/ distinct smell. There are other ways to check if candy has been tampered with, such as if the candy itself is crushed, broken, or split.

Candy, friends, and costumes are what Halloween is all about. Make sure to stay safe, so you can enjoy these things without complication this Halloween.