HALLOWEEN SAFETY
October 31 is one of the most anticipated days of the year for a child. But with all the excitement of Halloween, it’s very easy for children to forget to be safe. Here are some helpful tips to keep your children safe this Halloween.
•BE SEEN: Walking on streets in the dark can be dangerous for a child. Make sure your children wear costumes that are bright and reflective so passing motorists can see them. Carrying flashlights and adding reflective tape to their costume and trick-or-treat bag are other good ways to increase their visibility. Flashlights also come in handy for spotting obstacles in the dark. Be sure to use a sidewalk when one is available and to cross streets in designated crosswalks as a group so you’ll be more noticeable.
•DON’T TRAVEL ALONE: Children should always travel in groups and, preferably, with an adult. Stay in neighborhoods that are well lit and well-known.
•WEAR THE RIGHT COSTUME: Remember that costumes, especially wigs with long hair, can be a fire hazard. Make sure your child wears a costume that is flame-retardant. Wearing a mask can limit a child’s range of vision, so think about using non-toxic makeup instead. If your child does wear a mask, stress to them the importance of turning and looking both ways before crossing a street. Costumes should also be short enough so the child doesn’t trip and fall. Falls are the most common unintentional injuries that occur during Halloween.
•EAT SAFE: Don’t take, eat or drink any unwrapped food. Treats should not be eaten until they are taken home and inspected by an adult. When in doubt, throw it out.
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