Between trick-or-treating, costumes and candy, Halloween can be a safety nightmare. Help your little ghosts and goblins avoid the dangers of this haunted holiday without spoiling the fun.
From “Boo!” to Boo-Boos
Walking around the neighborhood in a favorite superhero outfit and asking neighbors for candy is a special treat for a child. However, excited children often don’t pay attention to passing cars or other safety hazards. According to Safe Kids USA, twice as many child fatalities involving cars occur on Halloween than on any other day of the year. When it’s time to trick-or-treat, keep in mind the following tips to protect your child:
- Always have an adult accompany children.
- Bring a flashlight.
- Inspect your children’s candy, and only let them eat factory-wrapped candies—no homemade treats.
- Stay away from fire hazards, such as lit candles and luminaries.
- Use sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the edge of the road going against traffic.
- Instruct children to walk—not run—from house to house.
Costume Precautions
Halloween is more fun with a great costume, but some costumes feature potential safety issues. Avoid costumes that are extremely bulky or awkwardly shaped, as these can prevent your child from moving quickly and avoiding fire and other hazards. Attach reflective tape to all costumes and treat bags to improve visibility. Ensure all accessories, such as swords and wands, are short and soft on the ends. Use face paint instead of masks, which can significantly hinder your child’s peripheral vision. When purchasing Halloween make-up, look for non-toxic products. The Food and Drug Administration’s “Summary of Color Additives” lists colors approved for cosmetic use. If face paint includes a color not on the FDA’s list, don’t use it.