Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween can be a fun-filled afternoon or evening for everyone in the family. But sometimes the fun can become scary if an injury occurs. That’s why the staff at Children’s Hospital put together the following information to help trick-or-treaters have fun and be safe.

• Preschool-age children and toddlers can be afraid of the scarier aspects of Halloween. Talk to younger children in advance about the difference between reality and make-believe.
• Make sure that all children have adult supervision when trick-or-treating. And no one, no matter how old, should trick-or-treat alone.
• When choosing or making a costume, make sure that it is made of fire-resistant material and bright colors. If you choose a dark color, add reflective tape so the trick-or-treater can be seen by drivers of on-coming cars. Make sure that the costume is not a tripping hazard.
• Avoid sharp objects as accessories.
• Make sure that costumes are large enough to permit warm clothes under it if the temperature is low.
• If using face paint or make-up, make sure that the ingredient labels say “made with U.S. approved colored additives,” “laboratory tested,” “non-toxic,” or “meets federal standards for cosmetics.”
• Younger children are better off not wearing masks. But if you choose to use one, make sure that it doesn’t obstruct vision or breathing. An elastic band can be used to secure a proper fit and prevent it from slipping.
• Carry a flashlight.
• Give children bright-colored trick-or-treat bags.
• Make sure children are cautious when crossing streets. (See Street Safety)
• Trick-or-treat in familiar neighborhoods at homes of people you know.
• Know in advance the route that older children are taking.
• Set a curfew and make sure your child has a watch.
• Give children money to call home if necessary.
• Instruct children not to eat any treats until they get home and have them checked by an adult. Serve them dinner beforehand so they won’t be hungry.
• Dispose of any candy that has loose or open wrappers.
• Wash all fruit and cut into pieces to inspect it before eating.
• Contact police if any treats have been tampered with.
• Make sure that your home is well lit for visiting trick-or-treaters.
• Clear steps and lawns of any tripping hazard.
• If driving, beware of children darting out into the streets.