The spookiest day of the year is upon us! Pumpkins are popping up around the neighborhood, and scary movies are lighting up screens across the city. From picking your little monster’s costume to mindful yard decor, we each play a part in this holiday’s safety. Let’s review a quick refresher on the best practices for a happy Halloween.
Costume Considerations
A safe Halloween starts with the right costume. Keeping these tips in mind when choosing this year’s attire will ensure your choice is the best fit.
- Use non-toxic makeup or face paint for better vision in the dark (and don’t forget a patch test to check for any irritation).
- Costumes marked “flame resistant” are your best bet!
- Is the costume a good fit? Double-check your kid’s sizing to avoid unnecessary trips or falls.
- Use bright materials and flashlights for higher visibility. You can add reflective tape to Halloween bags and accessories. Glow sticks and glow-in-the-dark paint or clothing are fun options for the kids!
- Make sure accessories (canes, swords, etc.) have dull edges to avoid injury if your child accidentally slips.
- Although they might look fun, only use decorative contact lenses approved by an eye doctor.
- At the end of the day, remember to remove makeup, adhesives, and other potential overnight irritants.
Trick-or-Treating Guidelines
For many kids, collecting candy is the highlight of the holiday, so let’s ensure they’re doing it the right way! The dangers associated with trick-or-treating are easily avoidable; review these guidelines with your kids before you start knocking on neighbors’ doors.
- Always have a responsible adult present with younger children.
- For older kids allowed to venture out without an adult, be sure to review a planned route and have specified check-in/curfew times. Remind them to stick with their friends!
- Review the basics of street safety before going out.
- Remind kids not to eat any candy until you return home and can remove any potential allergens.
Be a Safe Driver
Halloween drivers — you have a responsibility, too! There are a few considerations to keep in mind if you plan to be out and about during the holiday. You should expect and adapt to the extra foot traffic around your neighborhood.
- Stay alert and drive slowly through residential areas.
- Take extra precautions near crosswalks, curbs, and sidewalks.
- Keep your headlights on at all times, and stay mindful when using your indicator lights.
Prepping Your Yard for Halloween
You’re likely to have guests in your yard during this spooky holiday, so it’s better to take precautionary measures than risk any accidents.
- Comb your yard for any tripping hazards and move objects accordingly.
- Rake away leaves from your steps, mats, and driveway.
- Shy away from open flames in your pumpkins or other decor (try battery-powered instead).
- Turn on your porch lights – and make sure your bulbs are working!
- Pets should stay inside until all visitors are gone for the night.
Beaumont Urgent Care Wishes You a Happy Halloween!
From our family to yours, we wish you a happy holiday. Stay safe, warm, and make memories this year! As always, we are here 365 days a year – visit an urgent care location near you.