And since we're all concerned about our kids walking around on Halloween night, here are some Halloween safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
ALL DRESSED UP:
-- Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
-- Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
-- Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.
-- When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
-- If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if he stumbles or trips.
-- Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
-- Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.
ON THE TRICK-OR-TREAT TRAIL:
-- A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
-- If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
-- Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
-- Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind Trick-or Treaters:
-- Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
-- Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
-- Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
-- If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
-- Never cut across yards or use alleys.
-- Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.
-- Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
-- Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
-- To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
-- Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
-- Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
-- Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.
HEALTHY HALLOWEEN:
-- A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
-- Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.
-- Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
-- Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween.
