Here's everything you need to know about keeping your kids safe this Halloween.
On Halloween, everyone enjoys a good scare, but not when it comes to child safety. Parents may teach their children a number of simple and effective actions that can help them lower their risk of harm.
Dressing Your Little Ghouls & Goblins
- Choose a light-colored costume that's easy to see at night. Add reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark tape to the costume and to the trick-or-treat bag.
- Only buy costumes labeled "flame-retardant." This means the material won't burn. If you make your own costume, use nylon or polyester materials, which are flame-retardant.
- Make sure wigs and beards don't cover your kids' eyes, noses, or mouths.
- Masks can make it hard for kids to see and breathe. Instead, try using non-toxic face paint or makeup.
- Don't use colored or decorative contact lenses, unless they're prescribed by a licensed eye doctor.
- Put a nametag — with your phone number — on your children's costumes.
- To prevent falls, avoid oversized and high-heeled shoes. Make sure the rest of the costume fits well too.
- Make sure that any props your kids carry, such as wands or swords, are short and flexible.
When They're on the Prowl
- A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds
- If your older children are going alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you
- Agree on a specific time children should return home
- Teach your children never to enter a stranger's home or car
- Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends
- Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home, and take care to avoid any food allergies
- Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don't run, across the street