Halloween Safety Tips

With Halloween right around the corner, it is time to remind ourselves of the important tips to keep the holiday safe for the little ones (and the big ones.) Although we may think, we’ve got it down, here are some safety guidelines as you prepare for the fun fall festivities: 

1. Costumes
Costumes should be made of flame-retardant materials and should be either light in color, or have reflective tape put on it for visibility. Avoid long dresses, skirts or other trailing pieces to costumes, as a child may trip or it may catch onto a neighbor’s porch or bushes. Masks also pose a danger, especially if they are too big or ill-fitting. If possible, design a costume without a mask, using headwear, face paint, make-up, etc. If it is a cool or cold night (as it will be in many parts of the United States) make sure that costumes are large enough to allow for warm clothes, or that warm clothes become part of the costume. Even an excited youngster will grow grumpy and miserable if he is too cold or wet.

2. Preparing Your Home
If you are expecting Trick-or-Treaters, make sure your porch or front door is free of clutter and items that may provide a hazard. If you have prickly roses or shrubbery along your front walk, either prune or tie them back for the evening. Make sure any decorations are not a hazard to visitors as well. If you are using jack-o-lanterns with a “live” flame, make sure that they are out of the way and not likely to be tipped or catch a costume on fire. Jack-o-lanterns look wonderful lined up inside a front window and this makes for a safer choice. If you do put them on your porch or front lawn, consider using electric outdoor twinkle lights to illuminate them. Not only are they safer, but the pumpkins will be less likely to “cook” as with a candle. Last, but not least, make sure your walk and front door are well-lit and any dogs or animals are put away for the evening.