Halloween is coming fast. To ensure children are safe while still having fun, Halloween safety tips include:
Safe Costumes
Before buying or making your childs’ costumes, consider the following:
- Avoid Trips and Falls. The UL Safety Guide advises that Halloween costumes should “allow full movement for your kids. Costumes that drag, constrict or drape pose a dangerous hazard, especially at night. Check to ensure that costumes don’t restrict your children’s vision, and instruct them to watch out for tripping hazards, such as cords”.
- Flame Resistant Material: Also check to see if the costume is made of flame-resistant materials. During Halloween many jack o lanterns are lit by candles located near the trick or treat areas.
- Be Seen, Be Safe: Attaching reflective materials to costumes also ensures greater visibility. Make sure each child has a flashlight to help them see and be seen.
Jack O Lanterns:
Battery lit lanterns are the best option to keep children safe. If candles are used, the pumpkin should be placed well out of reach of all children.
Candy:
Make sure the kids do not eat the candy until you have had an opportunity of inspecting it at home under the light. Suspicious or open packages should be thrown away.
Road Safety Tips:
A quick reminder of road safety tips should be given to the kids going out on their own or in a group. The Ontario Safety League posts Elmer’s 7 Safety Rules which include looking all ways before you cross the street and when “leaving a curb, don’t run.”
For those driving, reduce your speed and keep a look out!
