From the sweets to the costumes, Halloween is a fun-filled time for kids and parents alike. But it can pose dangers to young revelers.
To help make this year’s festivity a trick-free treat, follow these simple safety tips:
Adorning Your Little Ghouls
Choose a light-colored costume because these are easily seen at night. Add reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark tape to the front and back of the costume and to the trick-or-treat bag.
Only buy a costume that is labeled “flame-retardant.” This means the material won’t burn. If you are making your own costume, use nylon or polyester materials, which are flame-retardant.
Make sure wigs and beards don’t cover your kids’ eyes, noses, or mouths.
Kids shouldn’t wear masks — they can make it difficult for them to see and breathe. Instead, use nontoxic face paint or makeup. Have younger kids draw pictures of what they want to look like. Older kids will have fun putting the makeup on themselves. Test the face paint or makeup on your child’s arm or hand before applying to make sure the paint doesn’t irritate the skin.
Avoid colored or decorative contact lenses, unless they have been prescribed by an eye doctor for your child.
Put a nametag — with your phone number — on your children’s costumes.
Avoid oversized and high-heeled shoes that could cause kids to trip. Make sure the rest of the costume fits well, too, which can help prevent trips and falls.
Make sure that any props your kids carry, such as wands or swords, are short and flexible.
