10/31/2023
Happy Halloween!
Tips to be safe on Halloween are below:
Practice costume safety.
Make sure all costumes, wigs, and accessories are fire-resistant, as your kids could encounter anything from jack-o-lantern candle flames to a neighbor’s bonfire while trick-or-treating. An ill-fitting or uncomfortable costume can also make or break your child’s Halloween. Try before you buy, and ensure that the costume doesn’t pose a tripping hazard.
Choose makeup wisely.
Many kids have sensitive skin. Choose nontoxic cosmetic products and test makeup on a small area first to see if any irritation occurs. At the end of the night, follow the product’s instructions to fully remove all makeup.
Rethink the mask.
Masks can obscure kids’ vision, making it difficult for them to see traffic or tripping hazards. Instead, plan a mask-free costume—the options are endless!
Prepare for the scare.
Especially for young children, Halloween sights and sounds can be intense. It may help to have a discussion in advance about the difference between reality and “make believe.” Reassure kids that it’s OK to feel nervous. If they aren’t ready for the haunted house this year, maybe they can try next year.
Give kids a refresher on traffic safety.
In the excitement of the holiday, even older kids may forget the traffic-safety rules they follow every day.
Increase your child’s visibility.
Halloween costumes often feature dark colors, making kids harder to see at night. Choose a lighter-colored costume if possible, and pass out glow sticks or use reflective tape to ensure kids are visible to motorists.
Encourage kids to stay together.
Even if you will be accompanying your children, remind them to stick with your group at all times. Make sure their phones are charged in case they become separated from their friends.
Have kids stick to familiar, well-lit areas.
If you won’t be accompanying your older kids on Halloween night, discuss their route in advance and remind them to stay in your neighborhood.
Check all treats.
While stories of Halloween candy tampering are mostly urban legends, it never hurts to be safe.
Be mindful of allergies.
