With Halloween here, ghosts, goblins and ghouls will take to neighborhood streets in search of holiday treats. Unfortunately, costumes aren’t the only thing haunting about Halloween, as it is among the top holidays resulting in pediatric emergency room visits.
To ensure your celebrations and trick-or-treat excursions are both fun and safe, Texas Children’s Hospital offers parents the following tips:
Children under 12 should always have adult supervision. If they’re old enough to trick-or-treat on their own, be sure to advise them to stay in a group, remain on populated, familiar streets and carry a cell phone.
Stick to trick-or-treat friendly homes that are well-lit. Children should always remain outside rather than entering any houses.
Choose a costume that is flame-retardant, brightly colored (or has reflective strips) and short enough so that your child doesn’t trip on it. Accessories such as swords and knives should be soft and flexible.
Consider using non-toxic, hypo-allergenic face paint instead of a mask, as it can obstruct your child’s vision and pose a safety hazard.
Only allow your children to eat factory-wrapped treats after you inspect them. Throw away any suspicious goodies and homemade treats. For younger children, remove all choking hazards such as gum, small toys or hard candies.
When trick-or-treating, use flashlights, stay on sidewalks and only cross the street at designated cross walks.
Texas Children’s Hospital urges parents to be informed of Halloween dangers and take the above safety precautions to reduce the occurrence of accidental injuries.
Click here to learn more about ‘Texas Childrens Center for Childhood Injury Prevention.
