What''s the trick to a safe Halloween? The National Safety Council (NSC) offers the following tips to prevent injuries and deaths associated with Halloween, such as falls, pedestrian/car crashes and other hazards.
Review All Precautions
- Watch for children on roadways, medians and curbs.
- Children should not trick or treat alone. Ensure adequate adult supervision.
- Children should stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well lit.
- Children should not eat any treat until a parent has inspected it.
Dress Safely
- Use only fire-retardant materials for costumes.
- Costumes should be loose so that kids can wear warmer clothes underneath if necessary.
- Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard.
- Costumes, bags and sacks should be made of light-colored materials. Use strips of retro-reflective tape on costumes and bags to make more children visible.
- If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eyeholes. Facial make-up is safer and more colorful.
- Flashlights help kids see better and be seen more clearly.
Tips for Homeowners
- Provide adequate outdoor lighting.
- Keep walkways free of obstructions.
- Provide alternatives to candy and junk food.
- Encourage community leaders to provide safe designated trick or treating hours or alternative celebrations.
by Virginia Sutcliffe