Halloween Safety 101
The fall season is in full swing, and Halloween is right around the corner. While your children are busy designing costumes and discussing their favorite candy, you’re focused on keeping them safe during this busy night. To ease that concern, the team at Briarcliff Pediatrics has assembled a list of our top 10 Halloween safety tips to help ensure your little ones stay protected as they trick-or-treat. From costume safety to candy checks, these simple tips will help make Halloween a fun and worry-free experience.
Costume Safety:
- Glow in the Dark: It can at times be difficult for cars to see trick-or-treaters at night. Plan for your child to wear a bright costume, add reflective tape, and carry glowsticks in an effort to help them be seen easier.
- Makeup Safety: If your child’s costume requires makeup or face paint, always use nontoxic products. There are also hypoallergenic options that may help reduce allergic reactions or breakouts.
- Safe and Comfortable Costumes: Avoid tripping hazards and increase comfort by ensuring costumes and shoes fit properly.
Trick-or-Treating Safety:
- Street Safety: Instruct children to always use sidewalks and to check both ways before crossing the street. It is always safest to cross the street at intersections, so avoid crossing between parked cars.
- Safe Independence for Older Kids: Older children can enjoy some independence by trick-or-treating with a group of friends, but review safety measures and tips as well as set a curfew to ensure a safe return home.
- Younger Children Require Supervision: Young children should always be accompanied by an adult, and it is beneficial for them to stick to their regular bedtime routine.
- Report Suspicious Behavior: Your child should never enter a person’s home or car to receive candy. If you or your older children notice suspicious behavior, inform authorities.
Candy Safety:
- Inspect Candy Before Eating: There is always a chance that candy may have been tampered with, or that other items, such as cannabis edibles, can accidentally get mixed in. Be sure to check all treats closely before eating.
- Always Check the Labels: If your child experiences food allergies, be sure to read all candy labels, and remove any items that are incompatible with your child’s diet.
- Enjoy Candy in Moderation: Halloween candy is tempting and delicious, so avoid overindulging by making a plan with your kids to enjoy their treats in moderation.
Fall is such an exciting time of year, and there is endless fun in store for your family this season. If you have any questions or concerns about Halloween safety, don’t hesitate to contact our office and schedule a pediatric appointment with Dr. Raymond Deeb, Dr. Rebecca McCoy, or Dr. Nicholas Kelly. For additional practice tips and health updates, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
