Halloween Safety Tips

The trick-or-treaters will soon be knocking at your door. No matter what your children’s plans are for Halloween, here are some helpful tips to ensure a safe holiday. If you are buying a costume, make sure it is non-flammable and not too bulky (or too long) to avoid the risk of fire or a fall. Any costume accessories (pirate sword, light saber, etc.) should be short and flexible to avoid injury in case of a fall and to not impede walking. Any makeup should be tested on a small area of skin a few days before to make sure one is not allergic to the substance. The eye area of a mask, if possible, should be widened to improve vision. It is very wise to place reflective tape on the costumes and bags so kids are easily seen in traffic. Also, make sure the kids carry a small flashlight so they can see at all times. An adult should accompany the children, and not just the younger ones. Make sure the number of kids is manageable (excited children tend to not pay attention). Be sure to get an early start – the younger they are, the sooner they will tire out. Walk, do not run, stay on the sidewalk, and cross the street at corners. In regards to the treats, do not let the kids keep anything that is homemade (no matter how tempting it looks). Also, do not let the kids eat from their bags while trick-or-treating, and do not allow them to walk up to a dark house (or go inside a stranger’s home). In their excitement, kids are not always considerate of people’s property, so remind them to be respectful. Once the group is done, inspect their candy before they attack their bags. Make sure that all of the candy is factory-wrapped – discard any candy that is wrapped but looks like it has been tampered with or anything weird. After removing their costumes and washing off any makeup, let the kids enjoy a few treats before going to bed, and then make sure they brush their teeth. Here is wishing you and your family a safe and sane Halloween! Have fun!!