PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Halloween is almost here and that means kids will soon take to the streets dressed up as their favorite superhero or villain to get lots of treats. And for many, the fun will come even sooner as they take part in various trunk-or-treats, harvest parties, and other community events taking place now through Halloween.
While the season is all about fun and sugar rushes, there are some important things parents should keep in mind for the health and safety of their children.
Check over and limit candy
When the fun is over, whether from an organized event or from traditional trick or treating, make sure to check your children’s candy before they eat it and that you limit how much they are eating.
“Kids don’t think about food allergies. Be sure to check their candy before they eat it to make sure it doesn’t have anything they’re allergic to in it,” says Dawn Roberts, community health and volunteer coordinator at Northern Light AR Gould Hospital. “You should also make sure they only have access to their candy in moderation, so they aren’t overindulging and making themselves sick. This is especially important if your child is diabetic, and you might look for some sugar free options for them as well. If you find candy that has a loose wrapper, looks like it has been opened, or is suspicious looking in any way, throw it away,” she advises.
Costumes can be fun or scary, but make sure they are also safe
“If possible, pick lighter colors for your child’s costume so they’re more easily seen in the dark, or decorate them with reflective tape or stickers. Make sure costumes are warm enough for the weather or fit loosely enough to wear warm clothing underneath. Make sure costumes are not too long, to protect from tripping or getting caught on objects,” explains Roberts. She also recommends makeup and hats rather than costume masks that can obscure vision.
Stay safe walking from house to house
Roberts reminds parents to join their younger children, and for older children, make sure they go with friends, stick to familiar areas, and have a flashlight or glow stick so they can see and be seen by drivers.
Be extra cautious on the roads
Did you know that children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year, according to the National Safety Council? When people are driving on Halloween, be particularly cautious.
“Be sure to drive slowly and be alert for children who may dart out into the street as they run from house to house. Take extra time for kids at intersections,” says Roberts. “Get rid of any distractions, like your cellphone. Many people think answering one call or text won’t take their attention away from the road long, but it can be long enough to cause an accident.”
Have a safe and happy Halloween, everyone!
