Children spend the entire month of October counting down the days leading up to Halloween. Now that it’s finally here, your kids are probably beside themselves, worked up into a frenzy that can only be quelled by a night of trick-or-treating. This is an exciting holiday for children, and Halloween safety is the last thing on your child’s mind. Pedestrian injuries are the most common type of child injury on Halloween. Your child’s safety is your main priority, however. Here are some tips to help your family stay safe on Halloween!
Getting your costume ready
- It’s important to make sure your child’s costume is safe.
- Check to ensure that everything fits well and is secure.
- Hats and wigs should be fastened so as not to fall over your child’s eyes.
- Make sure your child won’t trip on his or her costume.
- Avoid costumes with excess materials that might get caught in branches or tripped over.
- Look for flame resistant costumes and materials.
- Choose comfortable shoes that fit to prevent tripping.
- Whenever possible, opt for face paint instead of masks.
- Wear bright colors.
- Try to incorporate reflective material or lights on costumes or bags.
Before you leave home
- Explain safety rules to your children. This will help them stay safe, and keep you from having to spend the evening shouting.
- Take a planned route that you know has sidewalks and crosswalks.
While you’re out trick-or-treating
- Children should be supervised by an adult at all times.
- Only use sidewalks and crosswalks.
- Teach children to look for cars that are backing up. Red lights are a big indicator!
- Carry flashlights or use headlamps.
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Cross the street in a group.
- Don’t cross the street in front of cars until they’ve come to a complete stop. There’s a lot going on Halloween night and it can be hard for drivers to notice you.
Halloween safety tips for drivers
Drivers can help pedestrians stay safe on Halloween night. If you’re out driving, you should be cautious. Drive slowly, double check for pedestrians before backing up, and communicate with other drivers and pedestrians. There’s no such thing as being too careful, especially when children are walking about.
Handling all of that candy
Candy tampering is rare, but it’s still a good idea to have your child wait to eat anything until the family gets home. If nothing else, this can help you regulate how much candy your child eats. A mountain of refined sugar isn’t good for your child’s health. Plan on handing out a little bit of candy in the days following Halloween, rather than give your child free rein to gorge.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!