Halloween Safety for Teens
Chef Murph K.T.
For generations, Halloween has been a holiday children have looked forward to. Who doesn’t like the opportunity to pretend to be someone (or something) else for a little while? However, the world has changed and safety is more of an issue than it was for your parents. While this doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate, it does mean you have to be careful, both for yourself and for any younger siblings that you are supervising.
If it’s going to be left up to you to take the kids trick or treating, ask your parents to have a discussion with them about the danger of strangers and why it’s important for them to listen to you and follow the rules. And the same applies to you if you have plans to celebrate. Your parents need to know that you understand as well, so talk to them.
The number one rule for any age is never to go into a stranger’s house. If you’re taking a child trick or treating, you must always be in sight before ringing the doorbell. In their excitement, run ahead and become separated from you.
Extra care should be taken before crossing a street. I know you’ve heard that before but those younger kids probably don’t pay attention as well as you do so you need to keep reminding yourself. There will be people celebrating in cars as well as parents driving along with their kids instead of walking with them. It’s just a fact that attention is going to be distracted so tell the kiddies to double check both directions before crossing a street. Or better yet, wait for you.
Are going out to a Halloween teen party? You need to let your parents know where you will be and who you will be with. If you are attending a party, try not to be embarrassed if they call the other parents before you are allowed to go. Understand that they are concerned for your safety. And don’t leave the party without notifying them or leaving a message with one of them. You can disappear just like the little ones!
If you are the designated driver, make sure the car is full of gas. No one wants to run out and be stuck in a secluded, dark place like a scary movie (Think of Elm Street!) or a place where someone could be hiding. Also, make sure you have a cell phone and it is fully charged. And no drinking and driving!
Because safety is such an issue at Halloween, your parents are bound to worry about you while you are out. To make it easier for everyone, discuss a curfew with them before you leave and meet it. Not only will you relieve their anxiety, but you’ll also develop their trust, isn’t this what you want?
Understand that vandalism is never cool, no matter what your friends may say. Thrown eggs can ruin the finish of a car. Splashed paint on a house can cost the homeowner hundreds of dollars. And if you are caught, you can be arrested and punished. Being a juvenile is no excuse for a wrong act. Ask yourself how you would feel if the situation were reversed.
Some people seem to think Halloween is an excuse for harming animals. Cats seem to be a particular target, possibly because of the tales of witches and their cats. You need to know that cruelty is never acceptable behavior. Outside of the fact that a helpless living thing should never be hurt, animal cruelty is punishable by law. Do not engage in this and try to stop others. If you cannot, walk away. Don’t stick around to be charged as an accessory to the crime.
Open, discussion between you and your parents concerning safety should ease their minds and leave you free to have the great time you want.
Safety and security should always be your priority!
XoxoX
Chef Murph
