TOP 5
ghoulish tips for kids, pets & pumpkins
In all the excitement surrounding Halloween, take a moment to review these tips to help ensure a fun-filled holiday without any real scares!
TOP 5
Pumpkin Carving Tips
1. Begin with a fresh pumpkin
Look for a pumpkin with a green stem. A thick, fresh pumpkin is best for carving.
2. Draw a plan for your pumpkin before you cut
Then transfer that design to the pumpkin with pen or a thin marker.
3. Try to shave off layers of the outer rind until it becomes more translucent. The level of transparency can be adjusted based on how much skin is removed and as a way to add texture and shadowing.
4. Delay carving until the last minute
TOP 5
Never trick-or-treat alone
Don’t be invisible
An adult should accompany young children, and older kids should walk as a group on an approved route
Carry a flashlight at night. Opt for a bright or reflective costume, or use reflective tape 3. Stroll safely
Stay on the sidewalk. Use crosswalks to cross streets, and never enter the street from between parked cars.
Be afraid of the dark
Pumpkins begin to rot as soon as you begin carving. Spritzing them with water can help, but there’s no turning back the clock once the first cut is made.
5. Cut a hole in the back
Cutting off the top of the pumpkin can cause it to rot faster. Instead, cut a hole in the back of the pumpkin and use an electric light to illuminate it. LEDs don’t generate much heat, which can cook and rot the pumpkin from the inside out.
TOP 5
Only approach homes that are lit, and never go inside a home (or a car) for a treat. Stay in well-lit areas, and avoid shortcuts through alleys or yards. 5. Check candy
Discard any unwrapped, spoiled or suspicious treats,
“HalloWag” Pet Safety Tips
1. Keep candy out of reach from pets. Xylitol sweeteners and chocolate in particular is toxic to dogs & cats
2. Keep pets away from the front door for their security and the safety of trick-or-treaters
3. If you’re dressing up your pet, careful not to restrict movement, vision, hearing or ability to breathe. If your pet is distressed by wearing a costume, remove it immediately.
4. Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar with identification tags to help ensure his or her safe return
5. Keep candle-lit jack-o-lanterns & other candles a safe distance from pets who may knock them over
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