How to Prep for Halloween the Safe Way

Every year, Halloween is a fun-filled celebration that draws in adults and children alike. However, during Halloween, it is also important to remember to celebrate safely, especially if you have children. That’s why we have listed four different ways you and your family can stay safe during Halloween.

1. Pick the right costume

This means choosing a costume that increases safety for children. For example, avoiding costumes that are dark and don’t stand out to motorists and passersby. Instead, it is safer to choose a costume that is brightly colored and can be seen by a motorist to avoid a car accident or any accident for that matter. It is also important to consider costumes that aren’t oversized or baggy and could potentially be a fire hazard. If you or your child chooses to wear a mask, ensure that you or they properly wear the mask without obstructing the airways. Before choosing any face paint or makeup, ensure to do a patch test to see if your child is allergic to the product.

2. Decorations

Seeing your neighbor's shiny Halloween decorations may put you in the spirit of wanting to put some up yourself. However, there are many hazards associated with Halloween decorations to be considered. For example, when dealing with small children, it is important to avoid letting them use any sharp objects or to have any objects around your garden that may cause injuries for them. If you decide to put up carved pumpkins, it is a good idea to let the adults do the carving and to pass the drawing of faces on the pumpkins to the children. Ensure, candles or lanterns placed indoors or outdoors do not represent any fire hazards. Place them away from curtains, and flammable objects, and do not leave them unattended. Ensure there are no water sources near electric lighting to avoid any potential exposure to electrocution.

3. Trick or treating

Always accompany your children when trick or treating, unless they are old enough to go with a friend. When walking, ensure your children are walking in well-lit areas and be careful when crossing the street. If your children are old enough to go trick or treating, ensure they know not to get into any vehicles or leave with anyone that is not considered a guardian.

4. Candy & Toys

Especially for younger children, you must inspect any candy your children may receive and tell your children not to eat any treats until you have looked at them. Candies can make for choking hazards such as chewy candies, peanuts, or hard candies. Ensure any toys your children receive are also inspected for any small parts that could potentially represent choking hazards. Avoid letting your children under 3 play with any toys unsupervised. In case of an accident ensure your household has at least one mini first aid kit to treat a minor first aid injury that may occur.

For more information on safe practices or if you’d like to sign up for our standard first aid course online click here.

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/home-safety/halloween-safety.html