Halloween is often a favorite holiday, and for good reason. Treats, costumes, parties, and fun with friends: Halloween offers much to love for people of all ages.
The day gives children a chance to exercise their imagination, be creative and make memories with friends. Adults also enjoy the day — handing out candy, trick-or-treating with kids, and often having their own parties.
“People of all ages can take part in the fun of Halloween,” said Michele Meszaros, a Nurse Practitioner with ThedaCare Physicians Pediatrics-Neenah. “Following precautions will help everyone enjoy the day safely.”
Follow these tips for a safe Halloween:
Pumpkins
- Carve carefully. Small children should not carve pumpkins. Young children can instead decorate pumpkins with markers, paint or stickers. Alternatively, kids can design, while parents do the cutting. Little ones also can help clean out the inside pulp and seeds.
- Flame out fires. Consider using a flashlight, glow stick or battery-powered candle to light your pumpkin. If you do use a candle with a flame, a votive is safest. Don’t place candlelit pumpkins on a porch or path where visitors may pass close by. Never leave flames unattended.
Costumes
- Maximize visibility. Try to choose costumes that are bright and reflective. You can add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treating bags to boost visibility.
- Avoid vision obstructions. Make sure your child isn’t wearing a hat or mask that impairs their vision.
- Focus of fire safety. If you’re purchasing a costume, ensure that it’s marked as flame-resistant on the label. If you’re making your own, choose flame-resistant fabrics such as nylon or polyester.
- Fend off falls. Ensure kids wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Skip high heels. Make sure costume hems are short enough to avoid tripping.
- Mind makeup. Make sure any makeup your child might wear is non-toxic. Test the makeup on a small area of your child’s skin to ensure it doesn’t cause irritation.
Walking and Driving
- Walk on sidewalks when possible. When it’s not possible, walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic.
- Don’t assume cars will stop. Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians in the dark.
- Take care when crossing the street. It’s best to cross at established crosswalks or intersections if possible. Instruct kids not to cross the street between parked cars or out of driveways.
- Check in with teen drivers. Stress the importance of paying extra attention while driving on Halloween night. This applies whether they’re out with friends or simply navigating their own neighborhood.
- Drive carefully. All drivers should proceed with caution and extra awareness while navigating busier streets during trick-or-treating. Slowing down helps ensure safety for all.
Trick-or-Treating
- Accompany young kids. Most of trick-or-treating takes place after dark. Adults should escort young kids as they make the rounds throughout the neighborhood.
- Explore other activities. Young kids often tire quickly in the late afternoon or early evening. Many communities offer Halloween activities that allow little ones to enjoy the fun in a safe, contained environment. Other organizations may offer trunk-or-treat or other events during the daytime.
- Set ground rules for older kids. Older kids often relish the independence of trick-or-treating with friends. If your older child is striking off on their own, discuss safe routes and agree on a return time. Make sure the group has flashlights, and talk with them about the importance of walking without distractions such as phones.
- Stress stranger danger. Kids should remain in groups. Remind children never to enter a car or home for a treat. Report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. Review with your child how to call 911.
- Take care with treats. Experts say candy-tampering is rare. However, it’s best to inspect and sort candy before your child digs in. Toss anything spoiled, unwrapped, or suspicious-looking.
- Balance food choices. Halloween can offer a good reminder of making balanced food choices. It’s common for kids to consume more treats than usual on Halloween. However, ensure that in the days that follow, kids keep treats as just that: something to enjoy in moderation.
“We can all do our part to ensure the day remains safe for kids young and old,” Meszaros said. “We hope everyone will savor all the fun and joy that Halloween offers.”
