Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids! As I usually write about safety hints for this holiday and, particularly, Halloween itself, this year I'm "borrowing" from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
ALL DRESSED UP: Bright and reflective costumes are vital. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame. Additionally, consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
Consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives to masks. Do be sure to fit hats properly so they don't slide over eyes, and test makeup ahead of time on a small patch of skin to make sure of no reactions.
If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or long.
Do not use decorative contact lenses. Regardless of packing statements, using lenses without a prescription is both dangerous and illegal. They can cause serious eye disorders and infections, which may lead to permanent vision loss.
Ellen Phillips Ensure your kids know how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they ever have an emergency or become lost.
HOME SAFETY: To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, remove anything a child could trip over, such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
Sweep up wet leaves from sidewalks and steps.
Restrain pets so they do not excitedly jump on or bite a trick-or-treater or, perhaps, run away.
TRICK-OR-TREATING: A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds, and make sure the party has flashlights with fresh batteries.
If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route you approve and agree on a specific time when they should return home.
Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind Trick-or-Treaters:
Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
Never cut across yards or use alleys.
Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local law). Never cross between parked cars or out of driveways.
Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean everyone else will do the same.
Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
HEALTHY AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN: Teach Kiddo to politely turn down homemade treats and to never taste other kids' food.
A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.
Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
Try to ration treats for the days and weeks following Halloween.
Here's to a safe and Happy Halloween!
Contact Ellen Phillips at Consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com.