Tips For Keeping The Older Crowd Safe During Halloween- Halloween is the night for running around in the dark, knocking on strangers' doors and eating the treats they provide.
That does sound scary.
Perhaps that is why community organizations large and small pump out trick-or-treat safety checklists every October to keep the holiday fun, not dangerous. Yet when it comes to Halloween safety, there are plenty of tips aimed at keeping children safe, but not so many for the older crowd participating in Halloween festivities.
Who are you going to be? That's usually the first question to answer come October. It's important for kids and adults to pick a safe costume. The National Safety Council reports that falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween.
Lee Haacke and his wife, Barb, own Party America in Great Falls. They suggest that customers try on a costume before they buy.
"It's important to get a costume you can move around in," Haacke said, noting that costume sizing varies from one manufacturer to another. He explained that costume makers are increasing their focus on safety features such as wider eye holes in masks, or mesh portions that allow the subject to see but not be seen. He also suggests cutting larger holes in masks at home and using makeup around the eyes or mouth.
The Haackes attend costume trade shows well before Halloween to pick out selections for their store. Barb says she passes on costumes that are too risqué and lets her husband know when she thinks a disguise would be hard for a woman to wear.
Safety groups recommend all Halloween revelers wear comfortable shoes, make sure capes and dresses do not pose tripping risks, dress for the weather and stay visible after dark.
Law-related education officer Scott Babenek of the Great Falls Police Department asks adults to use common sense whether they're supervising trick-or-treating or attending social gatherings this Halloween. He adds that trick-or-treat chaperones should leave the alcohol at home and remain sober.
"Adults need to be aware of their surroundings," the officer says. "They can detect suspicious behavior and safety concerns."
For adults attending parties, alcohol is often on the menu. Bars are also popular Halloween destinations to show off a killer costume. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) warns that sexual assault is a crime fueled by motive and opportunity, and adult Halloween celebrations can pose additional risks.
The group published a list of safety tips for college-age students planning to attend parties. These tips can be helpful to remember year-round.
Haacke says no matter what or who you dress as this Halloween, the safest outings are made with friends you can trust.
Reach Tribune Staff Writer Andrea Fisher-Nitschke at 791-6585 or ANitschke@gftribune.com. Follow her on Twitter @AndreaFNitschke
Adult safety tips
• Trust your instincts and leave any situation that makes you feel uncomfortable.
• Report suspicious behavior to authorities.
• Know your surroundings and plan a safe (and sober) way home.
• Attend parties with friends and plan a "butt in" signal for uncomfortable situations.
• Do not accept drinks from strangers and keep your drink in your sight at all times.
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Is candy a sweet deal? /6A
