Halloween Safety

Halloween Safety

Halloween is a holiday that encompasses free-spirited fun for all.  With the holiday quickly approaching, it is beneficial to be reminded that having fun is still possible while also staying safe.  Utilize these safety tips for your planned Halloween festivities to ensure that it will be a successful celebration.

Costume Precautions

• When choosing you or your child’s costume, be sure to be aware of how loose, long, or baggy it is when on. If the costume is not the appropriate height, the risk of tripping increases significantly.
• When purchasing wigs, costumes, and accessories for the holiday event, check to make sure that they are fire-retardant.
• When out at night, be sure to incorporate reflective tape on you and your children’s costumes. This will create better safety for street crossing.
• Due to allergic reactions, be sure to check the packaging of face makeups and paints before purchasing them to ensure that it is either “FDA Approved” or “non-toxic”.

Trick-or-Treating Safety

• As always, when crossing the street be sure to look both ways.
• Remind your children that they are not permitted to enter anyone’s home to receive candy, unless you or another trustworthy adult is present.
• If your child is under the age of 12, do not allow them to go trick-or-treating alone. However, if they are of age to go independently, be sure to map out a route of their travel before they leave the house.
• Remind your children to never approach an unfamiliar car.
• Be sure to inspect your children’s candy when they get home to make sure all unwrapped treats are disposed of, along with homemade goods.
• If you currently have young children, be attentive to the hard candy, gum, or items with small ingredients such as peanuts that they eat due to the possibility of choking hazards.

Pumpkin Carving Tips

• When carving pumpkins, be sure that the process occurs on a flat surface, with good lighting.
• Use a pumpkin-carving kit that includes tools appropriate when carving.
• If your children are young, allow them to draw their image on the pumpkin and then carve their image for them.
• When lighting your pumpkin, be sure they are away from flammable objects such as sheets and curtains. For this purpose, use votive candles or battery-operated tea lights.
• Most importantly, never leave a lit jack-o-lantern unattended.

There are many unforeseen risks that accompany the Halloween holiday.  By closely monitoring your children and utilizing the tips listed above, it will minimize said risks significantly from occurring.  Clark-Mortenson wishes a safe and enjoyable Halloween to all.