HALLOWEEN SAFETY AND HEALTH TIPS

Halloween is an exciting time of year for your child, so to ensure that they have a safe and healthy experience, here is some valuable information from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for you to consider before sending your little ghost or goblin out for "Trick or Treat."

Plan costumes that are bright and reflective.  Make sure that shoes fit well and that the length of the costume is short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

Use reflective tape on costumes or treat bags to make your child visible to cars.

Consider using non-toxic face paint or makeup instead of a mask that may block or limit your child's vision.  Top off this look with an appropriate hat as a safe alternative

Shop for costumes, hats and wigs that have the words "flame resistant"or "flame retardant" on the label.

Test the sharpness of a sword, cane or stick if it is a part of your child's costume, so that it will not cause an injury if your child trips or falls on this accessory piece.

Provide your child with a flashlight with fresh batteries, and make sure that you or your child's escort also has a flashlight in hand when making the rounds of the neighborhood.

Teach your child how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.

Small children should not work with sharp carving tools.  Provide them with markers to draw a scary face.  Parents can then do the cutting.

Votive candles are safest for candle-lit pumpkins, but green "glow sticks" also make an errie flame-free light for your jack 'o lantern.

Lighted pumpkins should always be placed on a sturdy table, away from other flammable objects or curtains, and NEVER leave a lit pumpkin unattended.   

Remind children to stay together in groups, on a planned route, and return at a pre-set time.  Only stop at houses that are well-lit, and always walk on the sidewalk.

If no sidewalks are available, walk on the far edge of the street FACING ONCOMING TRAFFIC.

Never enter a stranger's home of car for a treat.

Always inspect your child's treats before they eat any "goodies."  Consider rationing treats over several days or weeks.  Throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

Consider purchasing non-food treats such as pencils, pens, stickers, coloring books or hand-held inexpensive mazes or puzzles as an alternative to sugary foods.  This way, children who have a food allergy can have a safe holiday too.

        Any Questions?  Call or Email Mrs. Fox in the Health Office

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