The many zombie, vampire, and ghost costumes aren’t the only things frightening about Halloween. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released statistics that show child pedestrian deaths are four times higher on Halloween than any other evening of the year. There are many ways to keep children, and their parents, safe this Halloween eve:
- Don’t let kids wear costumes that are baggy or capes which could cause a fire hazard if it were to touch a jack-o-lantern’s flame, or create a tripping hazard. Other costume pieces should be avoided such as swords and canes that have dangerously sharp edges, or masks which could block a child’s vision.
- Some make-up could cause allergic reactions. Make sure products such as face paints are FDA-approved before using them. Decorative contact lenses could result in eye infections.
- Flashlights, reflective tape, and glow sticks will make your child more visible to divers. Protect your children from running into streets.
- Clear your front porch and make sure it is accessible and safe for trick-or-treaters. Electric candles are safer than using real flames.
- Make sure young trick-or-treaters are monitored by an adult or check in regularly with a parent and know to never enter a stranger’s house.
- Inspect all candy the child brings home, especially due to recent Raisinets and lollipop candy recalls.
The FDA’s list of safety tips during Halloween is another valuable resource for parents, according to a safety website. , I hope everyone has the best possible Halloween that is both fun and safe.
