Halloween is a cherished holiday enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to teenagers and adults. Famous for its spooky traditions, haunted houses and creative costumes, Halloween also presents additional risks for trick-or-treaters; children are four times more likely to be seriously injured in pedestrian/automobile accidents than any other night of the year.[1]
How to keep children safe during trick-or-treating
Before setting out to trick-or-treat on Halloween, children should follow several safety precautions to ensure a fun and safe experience.
Cross the Street Safely
Young children should always be accompanied by adults on neighborhood rounds, especially if it’s dark outside. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. are the riskiest times for child pedestrians.[2] Crossing the street in groups rather than individually can minimize the number of automobile-related accidents.
Minimize Cellphone Use
While cellphones are an effective way to communicate with your children if you are not present while they trick-or-treat, they can also be an added distraction while walking near a road. Provide guidance on safely using cell phones during Halloween by emphasizing the importance of reserving them for essential calls and ensuring a secure, accessible place to store them when not in use.
Choose the Proper Costume
Costumes play a crucial role in children’s safety on Halloween. Look for costumes that fit well and don’t obstruct vision. Costumes that don’t fit well can lead to tripping or falling. Dark clothing can make it difficult for drivers to see, increasing the chances of a pedestrian/automobile accident. Wearing a bright or reflective costume can ensure children are visible to drivers.
Inspect Candy Before Eating
Before enjoying candy, scan and throw away any expired, unwrapped or suspicious items. According to the Nonprofit Children’s Health Organization, “stick with wrapped candy; fresh fruit is easily tampered with and may be covered with bacteria that could make you sick.”[3]
Experiencing a medical emergency?
If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911. At Mountainside Medical Center, our board-certified doctors, nurses, and physicians are available 24/7 to provide a full spectrum of emergency medical services. To learn more about our Emergency Care, visit https://mountainsidemedicalcenter.com/services/emergency-care/.
[1] https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/halloween-safety-tips
[2] https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Halloween-Safety-Tips.aspx
[3] https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/halloween-safety-tips