Halloween: Keep it safe
Here are some safety tips from About.com’s Guide to Pediatrics:
Make sure that children’s costumes are bright, reflective, and flame retardant. Also, consider using face paint instead of masks, which can often obstruct a child’s vision.
If a costume requires a plastic knife or sword, be sure that they are flexible, not rigid or sharp to reduce injury if the child should fall.
Younger children should have their names and addresses attached to their costumes in case they wander away from the group.
Trick-or-treaters under the age of 12 should travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult. Older children should have an established curfew.
Tell children that they should only go to well-lit houses and remain on porches rather than entering houses to get their treats.
Remind kids that while trick-or-treating they should bring along flashlights, stay on sidewalks, and avoid crossing yards.
Children should bring their candy and treats home before eating them so that an adult can inspect them.
If you are driving on Halloween, be cautious and drive slowly to ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters. Watch for children in the street and on medians as many children tend to cross streets in between cars instead of at crosswalks.
When preparing your home for Halloween night, be sure to clear porches, lawns and sidewalks and place jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.
Avoid giving out choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats for young children.
For more tips and information on safety and Halloween, visit www.pediatrics.about.com.