I wish Halloween was as safe as it appears in some movies. Kids running around giggling and carefree from house to house with no parent supervision. That's not to say it's like other movies where all kinds of terrifying chaos breaks loose. Halloween can be perfectly safe if everyone makes safety #1 priority. Here are some quick easy tips to keep everyone healthy. I never want to deprive my kids of something just because something may go wrong. I do everything in my power to let them partake in traditional childhood, but in the safest way possible.
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Home Sweet Haunted Home
Try on costumes prior to Halloween. Make sure the length is good, and there is nothing to trip on at school or while trick or treating.
Consider the weather while choosing costumes. Some costumes may be appropriate for a cold night of trick or treating, but may cause a child to overheat at school during recess.
Make sure any masks do not obstruct a child's vision.
If children are wearing face makeup or paint, test a small amount on their skin prior to Halloween to make sure there are no reactions. An allergic reaction would put a damper on the holiday.
According to usnews.com, pumpkin carving is the number one cause of Halloween related injuries. Here some tips for safe ways young kids can decorate pumpkins - Decorating Pumpkins with Little Ones Using Multiple Mediums. Consider using battery operated tea lights instead of real candles in your jack o lanterns.
Trick or Treat
Speak with children about safety rules before venturing out.
Accompany young children and keep your eyes on them at all times. If there are many children, ask other trusted adults to join.
Consider using the buddy system.
Check if shoes are tied and that no one is carrying any sharp props.
Do not text and walk.
Provide everyone with light weight flashlights or glow sticks.
Some parents even like to add reflective tape onto costumes.
Practice, stop, look and listen at crosswalks AND driveways.
Teach children not to enter a house of a stranger without an adult.
Candy
If any kids in your party have allergies be vigilant that they are not sneaking bites of candy on the walk. (Really, none of the kids should be taste testing yet.)
No running with suckers or other candy in the mouth.
Check that all candy is sealed and does not appear tampered with before the children start eating their treats.
Check for choking hazards.
Make sure the littles have time to brush their teeth before bed!
Happy Halloween!
Make sure to read, What to do with Leftover Halloween Candy and Using your Candy for Thanksgiving Treats.
Dragon Mama