Trick or Treat?
| Some say it was the Celts who began the practice of trick or
treating by offering to buy off evil people with treats before they turned
on them with tricks. Other say it started with the Druids, Celtic
priests who begged for favors in exchange for protection of souls, or with
Irish peasants, who begged for "soul cakes." It was the
English who took it a step further -- they put on masks and costumes as
the begged for treats, and if their treats were not forthcoming, they
played tricks. |
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| The tradition has gone through many changes. Questions of the safety of
treats and visiting unfamiliar homes have resulted in some parents discontinuing
trick or treating; preferring instead to keep celebrations at home. But in
many communities trick or treating is still a favorite tradition. |
Here are some hints for a safe, happy Halloween:
 Have children carry a flashlight, not only to help him see, but to help
others see him.
Watch out for dark costumes. Add iridescent strips for safety.
Trick or treat only at homes of people you know.
Trick or treat with your child. Children unaccompanied by an adult
should always travel in groups.
Make sure your child's costume is flame resistant. Keep costumes
short, or hold up long ones as you walk. Remind children to keep an
eye out at all times. There may be candles, forgotten tools, or broken
or loose steps in other people's yards.
Watch out for other people's pets.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission encourages parents to remind
children not to dart between cars. Trick or treating is traditionally
done at night when lighting in the streets may be poor. Drivers should
be watching for trick or treaters but sometimes they do not.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also warns children not to eat
any candy before their parents check it out. Always check for
tampering with packages before letting children start on their treats.
If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it
is not too long or too sharp. A child may be hurt by these accessories
if he stumbles or trips.
Try to dress children in their own shoes. Wearing high heels or
shoes that are too large can be dangerous and uncomfortable.
For those of you who expect and welcome trick or treaters, here are some
thoughts:
Have your treats prepared and by the door so you don't have to go looking
for them.
Create a unique way to give out treats. Simply placing the treats inside a
carved out pumpkin or in a basket makes them seem extra special.
Small inexpensive toys or stickers or good alternatives to candy treats.
Clear your yard and walkways. Remove any obstacles (tools, ladders,
toys, stools) and repair any loose steps.
Position pumpkins with candles in an area where they can still be seen but
will not be in a child's way. Consider placing flashlights rather than
candles in pumpkins that are outdoors.
Replace lights or bulbs that are burnt out. A well-lit front yard
and walkway is a safer one.
For More Information Contact:
Mayfield Electric & Water Systems
301 East Broadway, Mayfield, KY 42066
Tel: 270-247-4661
FAX: 270-247-0550
Internet: jcre@mayfieldews.com
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