Safety Tips for Trick or Treating this Halloween
While we want every kid to have a great time and make lasting memories this Halloween, we also want them to be safe and to avoid any potential troubles. Below are some safety tips to help your kids stay safe and out of trouble 'trick or treating' this year for Halloween:
- Trick or Treat in a Group. Always trick or treat with a group of friends or family members. If you have children under the age of 12 then make sure there is an adult with them at all times. If you have an older kid or young teen, make sure you know where they are going and who they are going with. Have check-in times set up in advance along with a set curfew.
- Check the Candy. Check candy for tampering and choking hazards before they get to dig in (we recommend avoiding homemade treats from strangers). If you are aware of your child's allergies then make sure to go through his or her trick or treat bag to take out anything that might cause a reaction before letting your child reap the rewards of a long night of trick or treating. If you are not sure if your child has an allergy then it important to look out for any possible symptoms of a reaction. Some of these symptoms include: Swelling of lips, tongue and throat, trouble swallowing, shortness of breath, break out in hives/rash, and drop in blood pressure. Since the only current way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid the problem food all together, it can be hard to always keep your children away from these problem foods, especially during Halloween. The Teal Pumpkin Project started a few years ago in Nashville to help combat the food allergy problem. Any household that has a teal pumpkin or a teal pumpkin sign at their house will be a safe house to go trick or treating at for any child with a food allergy. Parents, if you are worried about your child's allergies and want to read more on the Teal Pumpkin Project this Halloween then go check out Nashville Moms Blog.
- Walk Safely. Cross at street corners, use traffic signals and crosswalks. Watch for cars that are turning and backing up, and teach your kids to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
- Drive Cautiously. Slow down and be alert. Be extra cautious when entering and leaving your drive way. Popular trick or treating hours are 5:30-9:30pm, so be especially alert for kids during these hours.
Here are a few tips to help make your kid's costume a little safer:
- When buying a costume make sure that it is labeled "flame-retardant", which means the material won't burn. If you decide to make the costume this year, then use nylon or polyester materials because these are also flame-retardant.
- Make sure part of your kid's costume or trick or treat bag is easily visible at night. An easy way to do this is to add reflective tape or glow in the dark tape to the back of your child's costume or to the trick or treat bag. Another fun way to keep your kid visible is to have them carry or wear glow sticks.
- Avoid wigs and beards that cover your child's eyes, mouth, and nose.
- If possible avoid letting your child wear a mask. Masks can hinder your child's eyesight and breathing. A fun alternative to masks is to paint your child's face with non toxic face paint or makeup. Before applying to the face put a little on an arm or leg to see if the paint or makeup will cause irritation.
It is important as a parent to teach your kids how to be safe while at the same time being able to have fun. If you teach your kids ahead of time before the night of halloween, make sure to give them a little freedom and space to truly enjoy themselves come halloween night. Halloween should be a good time for both parents and kids!
Additional Halloween Tips from the Zerorez Nashville Blog:
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