Halloween is tomorrow (Oct. 31) and the experts at BC Children’s Hospital are offering some tips to keep the parties and trick-or-treating safe.
With a little planning, parents and caregivers can help prevent Halloween-related injuries:
Be seen
Help children pick out costumes that fit properly, keep them warm and are bright.
Parents want their children to be comfortable and visible to other trick-or-treaters and drivers on Halloween night.
Be safe
Make sure your children have a responsible adult to accompany them on their trick-or-treating adventure.
Skip houses that don’t have lights on and don’t approach unfamiliar animals.
Be creative
Encourage young children to decorate or draw on their Halloween pumpkins.
Young children shouldn’t use knives or sharp tools. Use a flashlight or other battery light instead of candles.
Be cautious
Children get excited about their candy hauls; keep them happy hauls by checking their treats before they eat them.
If your child brings home fruit, make sure to wash and cut before eating. Avoid choking hazards for children less than five years by removing treats like hard candy, popcorn and nuts.
Be vigilant
While driving on Halloween, watch for children at crosswalks and for trick-or-treaters darting into the road.
Dr. Ash Singhal, pediatric neurosurgeon and director of Pediatric Trauma Program at BC Children’s Hospital, has a special message for drivers:
“If you’re driving a vehicle – slow down – particularly when it gets dark because it can be more difficult to see kids stepping from crosswalks or darting across a street.”
Says Lisa Widas, RN, Trauma Program manager: “Your children may feel they’re too old to have an adult hang around while they trick-or-treat. Be there anyway because Halloween is a special night and although it can be a lot of fun, it’s dark and can be chaotic.
“Having a responsible adult around helps keep children safe.”