Safety first for Halloween
"Tricks" on how to make Halloween a "Treat"
Madison--With Halloween around the corner, state health officials are reminding parents, children and homeowners to include safety in the night of fun.
"During all Halloween events, it is important to put safety first," said Sheri Johnson, Ph.D., State Health officer.
"If everyone follows some basic safety tips, everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable Halloween."
Here are a few ways to make the trick-or-treating experience an enjoyable one:
Costume Safety
o Costumes that are light-colored are more visible to motorists.
o Use reflective tape to decorate costumes and candy bags so it’s easier for drivers to see children.
o Use make-up rather than a mask; if your child’s costume does include a mask, make sure it fits snugly and that the eyeholes are large enough to allow full vision.
o To help prevent trips and falls, wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes and keep costumes short enough so that a child will not trip on the bottom.
o Choose costume accessories that are made of soft and flexible material.
o Costumes should be made of flame-retardant material.
o Do not use novelty contacts such as "cat eyes" or "snake eyes."
Pedestrian Safety
o Trick-or-treating in the daylight is best. Otherwise, use reflective tape on customs and candy bags.
o Children should be accompanied by a responsible adult who has a flashlight. Flashlights or chemical light sticks help children be seen by motorists.
o Remind children to walk, not run, and to only cross streets at crosswalks.
Halloween
Home Safety
o Remove obstacles from your lawn, porch, or steps if you are expecting trick-or-treaters.
o Make sure your front porch is well lit.
o Avoid using candle-lit jack-o-lanterns if possible. If you do use candles, don’t place them near curtains, furnishings, or decorations. Move them off porches where children’s costumes may ignite.
o Keep your pets in another room when you are expecting trick-or-treaters.
o Small children should draw designs on pumpkins and leave the carving to the adults.
Parents should remind children not to eat any treats until they return home where an adult will inspect all items. Anything that appears to be tampered with or unwrapped should be thrown away. Plus, parents should also discard any candy or small toys that are inappropriate for their child’s age that could become a choking hazard.
For more Halloween safety tips, visit http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/health/injuryprevention/halloween.htm.
