Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for kids. They get to put on their favorite costumes and see how much candy they can collect. As a parent, you want to make sure your children stay safe, so remember the following tips related to costumes, candy and pumpkins.
Costumes
• Utilize costumes that are reflective and bright. Make sure that they aren’t big and bulky, which could cause entanglement or tripping.
• While masks are easy to slip on, they can inhibit vision. You may want to consider using non-toxic makeup as an alternative. It’s important to test makeup on a small area of the skin to make sure that there are no allergies to the substance.
• Use reflective tape on each trick-or-treat bag to increase visibility.
• Have your kids carry some type of flashlight or glow stick so they become more visible to automobile drivers.
Candy
• Be sure to inspect all types of candy before it is eaten by your child.
• Check to make sure that none of the wrappers have been tampered with. Candy that has twisted ends should receive a thorough inspection as these can easily be undone and rewrapped.
• Examine candy labels for ingredients if your child has allergies. Separate any candy that might set off an allergic reaction with your child.
• Watch for candy that could become a choking hazard. If you have children who are under 4 years old, they may not be able to chew food properly. Hard candy or gum should be separated from the rest.
Pumpkins
• Pumpkin carving should be performed by an adult. Allow children to draw a scary face on the pumpkin with markers before it gets cut.
• Rather than using a candle inside of your pumpkin, consider utilizing a glow stick or flashlight for illumination. If you need to use a candle, a votive candle is going to be the safest choice.
• When a pumpkin is lit, make sure it’s placed on a sturdy surface such as a table or the ground. There should be no flammable materials around the pumpkin. When placed on a porch, be sure to provide a good amount of room between the pumpkin and the area where visitors will be passing by.
• A pumpkin with a lit candle should never be left alone.
By taking the time to follow these safety tips, you’ll have peace of mind and your kids will stay safe.
Do you have more questions about your children’s health in Salem Oregon? Contact our friendly staff at WFMC Health or become a new patient today!
