With Trick or Treating just hours away, here is one last look at safety so that all of your ghouls, goblins and trick-or-treaters can enjoy the treats, costumes and activities that the season holds.
Below are a few potential hazards to be aware of and tips to help you keep the whole family safe:
COSTUMES
- Look for costumes and accessories such as beards, wigs, wings and tails that are labelled flame-resistant. Costumes with flowing skirts and capes, baggy sleeves and over-sized costumes can all be hazards around candles or flames.
- Remember, flame-resistant does not mean fire-proof. Nylon or heavyweight polyester costumes are best.
- Pick brightly coloured costumes that can be clearly seen by motorists. Reflective tape can also be added to the costume to increase visibility.
- Before using face paint or make-up, do a patch test to see if your child is sensitive or allergic to something in the cosmetic. Even products labelled as “hypoallergenic” can still cause allergic reactions.
- If the costume includes a mask, make sure it fits properly and allows your child to see and breathe easily.
- Ensure that toy weapons and similar accessories are made of soft or flexible material. Hard or rigid costume accessories can cause accidents.
DECORATIONS
- To avoid injuries, let smaller children draw a face or design on the pumpkin and then have an adult carve it.
- Candles, jack-o-lanterns, lighters and matches are all fire hazards. Place candles and jack-o-lanterns away from curtains and other flammable objects, and do not leave them unattended. A small flashlight or battery-operated candle can also be used to light your jack-o-lantern.
- Check indoor and outdoor decorative lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Do not overload extension cords.
- Before trick-or-treaters start to visit your house, be sure to remove objects that could cause children to trip or fall and turn on your outdoor lights to increase visibility and let trick-or-treaters know they can visit.
TRICK OR TREATING
- Give each child a flashlight to carry, to make them more visible to motorists and others.
- Tell your children to stay in well-lit areas and only visit homes that have their outside lights turned on.
- Teach your children to cross streets at the corner, and never cross between parked cars.
- If your children have any allergies be on the lookout for the Teal Pumpkin Project. These identify homes that offer non-food treats as an alternative to candy.
- Always examine the treats and toys that are brought home before giving them to your children.
Halloween is a great time for family fun! By taking a few precautions, you and your little goblins will have a safe night.
For some great info on Halloween safety check out the Canada Safety Council's Ten Halloween Safety Tips.