Autumn is upon us and the leaves are starting to change. It is almost Halloween, which means pumpkin carving and trick or treating, a fun time for both children and parents. The following are some safety tips to make the holiday even better.
Costume Safety Tips:
- Choose costumes that are bright and reflective and are short enough to prevent tripping. Make sure they are flame resistant.
- Instead of masks which can limit vision, use kid friendly make up.
- Make sure any accessories such as swords or sticks are not sharp.
- Add reflective tape to costumes and trick or treat bags.
Safety tips for trick or treating:
- Trick or treat in groups with adult supervision. Older children should have a designated route and a time to return home.
- Watch out for cars.
- Carry flashlights.
- Visit the homes of people you know, not strangers.
- Remain on well lit streets on the sidewalk or the side of the road. Do not trick or treat at homes where the porch light is off.
- Teach children how to dial 9-1-1 in case they get lost.
- Parents should sort through their children’s candies before any are eaten.
Keeping Your Home Safe:
- Remove any items from the front walkway, lawn and porch that trick or treaters can trip over, such as garden hoses, rakes and bicycles.
- Check that the outdoor lights are working and replace any bulbs that are not.
- Sweep wet leaves or snow from the sidewalks and steps.
- Keep pets indoors so they do not jump on or frighten an adult or child.
Pumpkin Carving:
- Small children should never carve a pumpkin. Let them draw the face with markers and then the parents can do the cutting.
- Use a votive candle, flashlight or glow stick to light the pumpkin.
- Make sure lit pumpkins are on a sturdy table away from flammable material such as curtains.
I am attaching a newsletter from the American Academy of Pediatrics with more tips to ensure that you have a safe and healthy Halloween.
