From the candy to the ghosts and goblins to the costumes, Halloween is that fun-filled time for children and parents to enjoy. However, it can also bring certain safety hazards to trick-or-treaters. There are many safety measures that parents can take to help make this year’s festivity a safe one and Allison Gault, MD, Assistant Professor, in the Division of General Pediatrics at the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital, addresses common concerns that parents have on Halloween.
What do you recommend to ensure maximum visibility of my child?
- Add something reflective to your child’s costume so they can be easily seen in the dark.
- Add a reflective piece of tape to their Halloween baskets.
- Carry a flashlight and make sure to carry extra batteries. You can also bring a supply of glow sticks.
- Make sure your children only cross the street at red lights. Refrain from jay walking. Walk, don’t run.
How can I make sure my child’s costume is safe?
- Make sure that your child’s shoes are comfortable and fit so they do not trip.
- Check that your child’s costume is short enough to prevent them from tripping.
- Look at the label of your child’s costume pieces, they should be flame resistant.
- Instead of masks that can cover your child’s eyes, consider using non-toxic and hypoallergenic make-up.
- Ensure that hats fit appropriately and are not covering your child’s eyes.
- Refrain from uses decorative contact lenses.
- Avoid having things around your child’s neck so it doesn’t get caught on anything.
Do you think props such as knives, guns, and swords are okay? How can I prevent my child from sustaining injury from a costume prop? What should I do if my child sustains trauma or a laceration from a prop?
- If you look at the American Academy of Pediatrics, they certainly state as part of the policy statement on gun violence that we should ideally limit exposure to violence, which even includes pretend weapons. However, this may not always be realistic and it is really up to the parents to make a choice.
- There is no ideal way to protect from prop injury, but things that are less sharp are ideal. Plastic, rounded props are much better.
What should I do if my child gets lost in a crowd?
- Teach your children your home phone number and address.
- Write your child’s name, your home address and phone number on the inside of their costume.
- Teach your child how to dial 9-1-1 in case of an emergency.
If I have an older child who is trick-or-treating alone, what safety precautions should they take?
- Do not trick-or-treat alone, always go with a group.
- Only go to houses where there are lights on inside and outside of the house.