Can your child see clearly through his ninja mask? Is the hem on your daughter’s princess costume short enough for her to run from house to house without tripping?
These are just some of the questions parents should be asking themselves in the days before Halloween. After all, the last place you want to go trick-or-treating on October 31st is the hospital emergency room. Safety should be the number one priority for parents as their kids make a mad dash for free chocolate and other sugary treats.
If you are looking to protect your little ghosts and goblins from potential Halloween tragedies, then take time to review the following safety rules:
1. Never purchase commercial costumes that are not treated with flame retarded materials. Non-flammable getups are widely available, so don’t settle on ones that are not properly protected.
2. Don’t overlook your child’s shoes. The top portion of your child’s costume may fit just right, but unless his shoes are as comfortable, then you are asking for a long night. High heels or oversized shoes may complete a look, but they are also a recipe for disaster if your child has to walk long distances in order to collect Halloween loot.
3. If you are planning to give your child the freedom to trick-or-treat without adult supervision, be sure he is armed with a cellphone in case of an emergency.
4. Add reflective tape to Halloween treat bags, so that your child is visible to passing motorists. You might also consider purchasing a pack of fluorescent glow sticks and having your child work them into his costume. Doing so will help you keep track of him in the dark.
5. As tempting as it may be, it’s not a good idea to allow your child to ride his bicycle while trick-or-treating. Costumes can easily get caught in the bike parts and lead to serious injuries.
6. Teach your kids to accept treats at the doorway only. Children should never go inside a stranger’s house regardless of whether they have been invited to do so in order to gather Halloween treats.
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