Halloween is just days away. Kids and adults alike look forward to the silly costumes, spooky themes, and good times.
But the fun can be easily ruined when the right safety precautions aren’t taken. To limit risks and help ensure your Halloween fun, keep these tips in mind.
Pumpkin Carving Safety – Don’t let children use sharp carving tools. For younger children, either have them draw their design on the pumpkin and then carve it for them, or just have them paint their pumpkin instead. They may enjoy the chance to use different colors and designs anyway.
Whether you’re carving or painting, be prepared to make a mess!
If you light your pumpkin with a candle, do not leave the flame unattended or near flammable objects like curtains or decorations. Keep the flame out of reach from both kids and pets. You may even consider lighting your pumpkin with a battery powered candle or a flashlight, which is safer than using a candle.
Trick-Or-Treat Safety – While trick-or-treating, everyone should carry a flashlight or have a glow stick for visibility and safety. Keep to the sidewalks rather than cutting through yards or alleys, and use crosswalks to get across the street.
Your kids are probably pretty excited about dressing up but make sure that their costumes are practical.
- Store-bought costumes are often made of thin material, so if it’s cold out, have them wear their costumes over some warmer layers.
- Be sure that their costumes fit comfortably, don’t obstruct their eyesight, and aren't a tripping hazard.
- Any props or additional accessories should be easy to carry and safe to hold in crowds.
It's highly encouraged that you or another trusted adult accompany your children, but if they are older and you’re comfortable allowing them to trick-or-treat without you, set some ground rules.
- Make sure that they remain in a group at all times and they have a phone with them in case of emergency.
- Give them a curfew and point out any areas of town you don’t want them visiting.
- Tell them to pass up on dark houses as they usually indicate that the residents aren’t home or aren’t participating in the Halloween festivities.
Looking Through The ‘Loot’ – After all is said and done, kids like to dive right into their candy.
But you need to scan their candy before they eat any of it. Immediately toss out unwrapped candy, homemade treats, and anything that may be spoiled or tampered with.
Moderate how much candy your child consumes in one sitting; belly aches can ruin the Halloween fun. Your pets don’t need belly aches either! Keep all candy and other foods in a place where your animals can’t reach.
Halloween isn’t for everybody, but for those of us who do enjoy the holiday, it’s one of the most exciting nights of the year. Just make sure that safety comes first!