Trick-or-Treating on Halloween Night - Safety Tips
Common Childhood Injuries on Halloween Night
Halloween poses increased safety risks for children, with pedestrian and vehicle accidents—and related injuries and fatalities—being four times higher than on other days. Contributing factors include rush hour traffic, darkness, and excited children suddenly darting into the street. Major dangers involve limited visibility for children in dark costumes, their lack of awareness of traffic, and distracted or impaired drivers on the road. To help ensure a safe and memorable Trick-or-Treat experience, the following safety tips are essential to keep everyone protected.
Halloween poses increased safety risks for children, with pedestrian and vehicle accidents—and related injuries and fatalities—being four times higher than on other days. Contributing factors include rush hour traffic, darkness, and excited children suddenly darting into the street. Major dangers involve limited visibility for children in dark costumes, their lack of awareness of traffic, and distracted or impaired drivers on the road. To help ensure a safe and memorable Trick-or-Treat experience, the following safety tips are essential to keep everyone protected.
All Ages
- Use bright and reflective costumes. Make sure shoes fit well and costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement, or contact with flames. Costume materials must be flameproof.
- Add reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
- Never use fake (or real) knives, guns, or swords that look real. If props are used, make sure they do not look real and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
- When shopping for costumes, wigs, and accessories, make sure they are labeled “flame resistant”.
- Because masks can limit or block vision, consider using non-toxic face paint or makeup as a safer alternative. Home food coloring are not recommended due to the difficulty of removing
- If makeup is swallowed call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222
- Carry flashlights with fresh batteries (or hand crank battery). Use only battery-powered lanterns or chemical light sticks.
Ages 12 and younger
- Children 12 year and younger should always have an adult with them when going door to door of a house
- Secure emergency identification (name, address, or phone) discreetly on Halloween clothing or bracelet in case a child is separated from the adult
- Remember to review with your children the “Stop-Drop-Roll” drill, in case their clothes ever catch fire
Ages 13 and older
- Adults should plan and review an acceptable route. Choose a familiar neighborhood
- Only visit homes with a porch light on
- Instruct your child to never enter a home, apartment building, or car to get a treat
- Carry a mobile phone for communication
- Because masks can limit or block vision, consider using non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives
- Agree on a specific time when they are to return home
- Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time
