Health and wellness October 4, 2016 By
Halloween Safety
It’s that time of year again! From parties and events to candy and costumes, October is full of fun for the whole family. Staying safe on Halloween doesn't have to mean raining on your child's parade. Here are some tips to keep Halloween safe and fun.
The Costume
- Swords, knives, and other costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.
- Always test make-up in a small area first to test for an allergic reaction. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
- Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.
- Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
Staying Safe on the Street
- Remind children to never accept rides from strangers or go inside someone’s home.
- Only visit well-lit houses.
- Carry flashlights and glow sticks so you can be seen in the dark.
- Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
Behind The Wheel
- Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
- Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
- Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.
- Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
Healthy Halloween
- Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
- Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away items that are spoiled, melted, unwrapped or anything that looks suspicious.
- Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween.
- A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
- Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books, glow sticks, trading cards, pens, pencils, bubbles or small toys.
It is important to talk with your children every year about safety concerns unique to Halloween. Also, be sure to review the do's and don'ts before heading out to trick or treat.
We hope these tips help to keep your family’s Halloween safe and "spooktacular!"
