Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Happy and Safe Halloween

Halloween can be a fun holiday, but a bit of planning will ensure it's a safe holiday, as well. Here are some tips for your family.

Costumes:
  • Bright and/or Reflective - consider adding reflective tape to costume or treat bags
  • Shoes that fit well
  • Costumes short enough to prevent tripping or entanglement
  • Non-toxic makeup and decorative hats are safer than a mask that can limit range of vision. If using a hat it should fit properly so it doesn't slide over the eyes
  • Costumes made using hoodie sweatshirts and sweatpants are very comfortable, warm and easy to make yourself
  • If purchasing costumes, make sure everything is labeled flame resistant
  • Look for accessories that are safe for the child and others
  • Flashlights for escorts and/or children should have fresh batteries
Pumpkin Decorations:
  • Small children can draw the face on their pumpkin with a marker leaving the carving to an adult
  • Consider a flashlight, glow stick or twinkle lights instead of a candle to light your pumpkin
  • If using a candle, a votive is the safest choice
  • Candle lit pumpkins should be located on a sturdy surface and away from flammable objects and should not be left unattended
Trick or Treat Safety at Your Home:
  • Keep your home safe to visiting children by making sure that the porch, front yard or driveway area is clear of obstacles (toys, bikes, decorations, garden hose, etc.)
  • Make sure outdoor lights are in working order and provide enough light for young children and parents to walk
  • Leaves can be slipery, so it's best to have them swept from sidewalk, porch or steps
  • Make sure pets are secure for their safety and the safety of trick-or-treaters
Out and About Safety Tips:
  • Children should always be accompanied by an adult
  • If older children are going alone, preview their route and agree on a time to return and stay with their group at all time. Consider having a cell phone with the group.
  • Only go to homes with a light on and never enter a home
  • Use the sidewalk and travel on well lit streets
  • Don't cut across yards or travel up alleys - especially for older children out together
  • Cross street at established crosswalks and corners - never between parked cars
Halloween Health:
  • A good meal prior to parties or trick-or-treating will help discourage children from filling up on Halloween treats
  • Children should return home to sort and check treats with adult supervision
  • Non-food treats are a nice option to hand out at your home - pens, pencils, crayons and coloring books or stickers can be a nice alternative
  • Non-sweet treats are another option - packages of crackers, raisins, sugar-free gum, cheese sticks or even a juice box
  • Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween

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