Halloween Safety Tips

From the American Academy of Pediatrics

• Because they can obstruct a child's vision, masks are not recommended. If a child wears makeup, parents should look for non-toxic, hypoallergenic kits.
• Costumes should be flame-retardant and fit properly. Avoid oversized shoes, high heels and long skirts or pants that could cause a child to fall.
• Children who will be trick-or-treating after dusk should have reflective tape on their costumes and carry flashlights.

"Carving a Niche…"

• Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers, then parents can do the cutting. Under parents' supervision, children ages 5 to 10 can carve with pumpkin cutters equipped with safety bars.
• Votive candles are safest for candlelit pumpkins.
• Lighted pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects and should never be left unattended.

"Healthy Halloween…"

• Serve kids a healthy dinner (with foods they like) before trick-or-treating, so they won't fill up on candy.
• Offer trick-or-treaters something other than candy. Give them colorful pencils, stickers, large erasers, or decorative shoelaces.
• Set a number of days candy can remain in the house before it gets thrown out.
• Children shouldn't snack while they're trick-or-treating. Parents should check treats at home.
• Watch for signs of tampering, such as small pinholes in wrappers and torn or loose packages.
• Parents of young children should get rid of choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies or small toys.

"Home Safe Home…"

• To keep their home safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
• Remember that Halloween is for children of all ages… so get involved with your little ghost or goblin!

Have a safe and happy Halloween!