Did you know that of eight major U.S. holidays, Halloween has the fifth-highest number of emergency room visits involving children under the age of 18? That’s why we wanted to share with you some important ways for parents to help their children avoid injury during a night of trick or treating.
Insist on adult supervision. Having a trusted adult with children as they go door-to-door and when crossing streets is a must. The excitement of Halloween — and all that sugar — can make children forget important safety rules, like not running out into the street. Have children over the age of 12? If they are mature enough to be out on Halloween night without supervision, ask them stick to familiar areas that are well lit and to trick-or-treat in groups.
Walk from house to house. On Halloween night, activities such as bicycling, skateboarding, riding a scooter or running from house to house are even more dangerous. Make sure everyone is walking.
Make sure each child has a flashlight. It’s easy to take a tumble if you can’t see where you’re walking. A flashlight and/or glow stick can help light the way. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers.
Make sure their costume is safe. Can your child see properly from inside their costume? Can they easily walk in it? Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision. Make sure a child can move freely in their costume.
Consider painting, not carving pumpkins. Provide adequate supervision when carving pumpkins. Lacerations from pumpkin-carving are one of the top types of Halloween injuries. Always supervise children while carving pumpkins and consider having younger children paint them instead.
Handing out candy? Check your front door/porch area to make sure it is clear of debris and any tripping hazards. And have a happy Halloween!
