Halloween is a magical time for children but comes with a few unique safety risks. From carefully chosen costumes to safe trick-or-treating practices, here’s how to ensure your little ones have a safe and spooktacular night.

Choose Safe, Visible Costumes

Costumes are at the heart of Halloween, but they should also prioritize safety:

• Reflective and Light Colors: Opt for bright or reflective costumes, or add reflective tape to darker costumes to make kids more visible in the dark. Glow sticks or flashlights also increase visibility for both children and drivers, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Size Matters: Make sure costumes fit well to avoid tripping hazards. Costumes that are too long or have loose pieces can catch on stairs or curbs, increasing the risk of falls.
• Avoid Masks: Masks can obstruct vision, especially at night. Face paint or makeup is a better choice, allowing children to see their surroundings clearly while looking festive. Test any makeup in advance for allergies or skin reactions.
• Flame-Resistant Materials: Look for flame-resistant costumes, as open flames from jack-o-lanterns and decorations are common around Halloween. Safe Kids Worldwide and the National Safety Council recommend nylon or polyester costumes that resist burning.

Stay Safe While Trick-or-Treating

With children more than twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other night, pedestrian safety is essential:

• Stick to Sidewalks and Crosswalks: Always use sidewalks, and when crossing streets, do so at corners or crosswalks. Avoid darting between cars, as this reduces visibility for drivers.
• Walk, Don’t Run: The excitement of trick-or-treating can make kids want to run, but walking helps them stay alert and less likely to trip or step into the street unexpectedly.
• Plan the Route: For older children going out alone, establish a clear trick-or-treat route in well-lit, familiar neighborhoods. Set a return time and ensure they have a way to contact you if needed.
• Stay with an Adult: Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult. For older children, encourage the buddy system and make sure they have flashlights or glow sticks to see and be seen.

Road Safety for Everyone

Halloween excitement often leads to distractions, so drivers and pedestrians alike need to stay vigilant:

• Stay Alert as a Driver: Slow down in residential areas and watch for children on the roads, curbs, and driveways. Safe Kids Worldwide notes that turning headlights on earlier in the evening can improve visibility and help spot trick-or-treaters more easily.
• Teach Kids Road Safety: Remind children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street, as this ensures they’re seen. Put away any devices that could distract them from their surroundings.

By following these simple precautions, you can help ensure that Halloween remains a night of fun, mystery, and safe adventures for everyone involved. With well-planned costumes, adult supervision, and pedestrian awareness, your children can enjoy the festivities while you rest assured they're protected.

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Sources:

• HealthyChildren.org
• Safe Kids Worldwide
• Children’s Health