Augusta, GA - With Halloween less than two weeks away, MCG HealthCare issues the following safety tips for trick-or-treaters, parents and others involved with Halloween activities.

Trick-or-Treaters:

• Be sure to carry a flashlight.
• Only approach houses that are lit.
• Obey all traffic signals.
• Walk on sidewalks where possible or walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Wear reflective clothing and make sure costumes do not drag the ground.
• Wait until you get home before eating any candy.

Parents:

• An adult should accompany young children at all times.
• Older children should have a glow in the dark watch and have a specific time they should be home.
• Make sure your child eats dinner before they go out.
• Costumes that are purchased should be flame retardant.
• Be sure you know where your children are going and that they know how to get in touch with you.
• Examine all candies before giving anything to your child and throw away anything suspicious.

Homeowners:

• Be sure to have clear pathways to the house that are well lit and clear of debris.
• Battery powered jack o'lanterns are preferred but if candles are used be sure to place the pumpkin out of trick-or-treaters' pathway.

• Consider healthy food alternatives such as packaged fruit rolls, mini boxes of raisins, or packets of microwave popcorn that can be eaten later. Also, consider non-food treats such as pencils, rings or stickers.

For more Halloween safety information, please contact your local law enforcement agency.

MCG HealthCare is the health system of the Medical College of Georgia and is comprised of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the School of Medicine and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.