October in Alaska is a special time of year. The days may be getting shorter and the temperatures cooler, but there are plenty of opportunities for children and families to get outside, spend time together, and enjoy the season. With darkness arriving earlier each day, it is also a great time to think about how we can help keep our little ones safe during seasonal celebrations.
From dressing up and participating in community activities and going door-to-door in the neighborhood to go trick-or-treating, seasonal festivities give families opportunities to make memories together. A little preparation can go a long way in helping children stay comfortable, visible, and safe as they enjoy all that the season has to offer.
Here are some safety tips from thread to help your family make the most of October in Alaska:
- Try to start your evening early while there is still some light out. If your fun continues into the late evening while the sun is setting, be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp to light the way. You can also attach reflective material to jackets, costumes, bags, or rain/snow gear to make yourself seen by other vehicles (if they don’t already have reflective details).
- Take extra precautions when driving around trick-or-treaters. Exit your driveway slowly, be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.
- Trick-or-treat in groups and travel on the sidewalks. Guide your children to cross at corners and at marked crosswalks instead of in the middle of the street. Practice the “four-count rule”: Stop, look, listen, and count to four.
- Stop at the curb.
- Look left-right-left-right (your four count).
- Listen for approaching vehicles.
- Make sure the roads are clear and cross when appropriate.
- BE BEAR AWARE! In some parts of Alaska, bears may still be active. Some can be seen in neighborhoods where they’re looking for an easy meal from trash bins or other food sources. Before heading out to trick-or-treat, utilize these simple steps to help keep your friends, family, and local wildlife safe:
- Make noise: Talk, sing, and make your presence known.
- Carry bear spray: If you’re in an area of Alaska where bears are active, carry bear spray and keep it easily accessible. Know how to use it before you need it.
- Keep food and treats contained in closed bags: Bears have a keen sense of smell, which can be a huge attractant if food containers are left open.
- Give bears space: If you see a bear, stay calm, keep your distance, and never approach, chase, or feed it. Bring children close to you and slowly move away without running.
- Keep neighborhoods clean: Secure garbage and other potential food sources around your home to avoid attracting bears into your neighborhood.
- Know what to do: Talk to your children ahead of time about what to do if they see a bear.
- Moose are also often seen in Alaska neighborhoods and walking along paths. Just like spotting bears; keep your distance, stay calm, keep everyone close, and slowly move away.
- Prior to trick-or-treating, offer children a nutritious meal or snack. Filling up on foods that provide energy and nourishment can help children feel satiated while still leaving room to enjoy their favorite sweets and treats!
- Encourage your children to wait until they’re home before enjoying their treats. Take a moment to inspect each piece of candy, making sure the packaging is sealed and free from any tears, holes, or anything that seems unusual. When in doubt, throw it out!
- For younger children, be cautious about the treats that can serve as a choking hazard.
- Encourage children to enjoy treats from people and places they know and trust. As an added safety step, avoid homemade treats from unfamiliar people or unknown sources. If you’re unsure where a treat came from or how it was prepared, it’s okay to skip and choose another treat instead!
- If you are giving out treats at your home, consider offering a few non-food options too! Small toys, stickers, glow sticks, or other fun surprises can help children with food allergies or dietary restrictions join in on the trick-or-treating fun and feel included.
These safety habits can help make seasonal festivities a positive experience for the whole family. Take a moment to review these tips with your children before heading out, then enjoy the fun, laughter, and traditions that make this season special. From all of us at thread, we hope you have a safe, fun-filled fall, and create plenty of wonderful memories with your loved ones!