Keep your children safe this Halloween

HALLOWEEN can be a fun time, if safety is practiced.

Here are some practical tips for parents to ensure your child is celebrating a safe Halloween.

Costume cautions:

– Choose bright colours that make your child more visible in the dark.

– Any store bought costumes and accessories (masks, beards, wigs) must be labelled “flame resistant.”

– Avoid oversized clothing. It makes it hard to walk and can come in contact with open flames from a jack-o-lantern.

– Your child should wear shoes that fit to avoid tripping.

– If you allow your child to carry a prop sword or knife, it should be made of soft plastic or rubber so it can bend if your child falls while carrying it.

Face facts:

– Masks can obstruct your child’s view, instead apply non-toxic face paints.

– Make sure oversized hats, helmets, or headpieces won’t interfere with their vision.

While trick-or-treating:

– Make your child easy to see by adding reflective tape or stickers to their costume.

– See if neighbours will be home while it’s still light out, and visit houses then if they’re ready for trick-or-treaters.

– Give your child a flashlight with fresh batteries.

– Tell your child to only go to homes with outside lights on.

Make a plan:

– Children aged 12 and younger, should be accompanied by an adult and clothing should be labelled with your name, address, and phone number in case you get separated.

– If your child is older than 12 years, make sure he/she has a way to reach you via cell phone.

– Establish a pre-planned route and curfew for children older than 12 years.

Before eating treats:

– Have your child wait until you’ve inspected his/her treats before they eat them.

– Discard anything slightly or not completely wrapped.

– If your child is allergic to nuts, check all treats carefully before he/she digs in.

– Children under the age of four shouldn’t have popcorn or hard candy – both are choking hazards.