Halloween is a highlight of the year for many children and even adults. Dressing up in vibrant costumes, walking around the local neighborhood and trick-or-treating for candy, or attending Halloween-themed parties is fun for everyone. Following key safety tips will help families enjoy their activities safely. These safety tips include:
- Wear ‘flame resistant’ costumes (check the label).
- Wear bright, reflective costumes or add strips of reflective tape to make you more visible.
- Wear makeup and hats rather than costume masks than can obscure your vision.
- Test the makeup a day or two ahead of time to avoid rash, swelling, or irritation.
- Don’t wear decorative and colored contact lenses due to risk of eye injury.
- Food safety is very important; do not eat candy until it has been inspected at home.
- Be aware of food allergens; do not accept or eat anything that is not commercially wrapped.
- Remove any possible choking hazards from bags of very young children.
- Throw away any treats that appear suspicious or have been tampered with.
- Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks, and look both ways.
- Keep your head up and walk and do not bury your head in an electronic device.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
- Walk on sidewalks or paths whenever possible.
- Watch for cars that are turning or backing up.
- Adults should provide supervision for trick-or-treaters under age 12.
- If no adults are present, encourage children to trick-or-treat in groups.
- Drive with extreme caution when traveling with trick-or-treaters and take extra time.