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Happy Halloween
By Dara S. Hosch, MD FAAP - Cobb Pediatrics
Halloween is a magical time for children but it is filled with potential dangers. Proper preparation can ensure a safe experience for your family. From jack-o-lantern carving to trick or treating, parents should use thoughtful consideration to prevent injuries. This is the perfect time to review Halloween safety advice.
Carving a pumpkin is a fun tradition and children love to be involved. However, sharp tools and little kids make a bad combination. Let the children participate in the design but leave the carving to an adult. Little ones can help remove the pumpkin guts by using an ice cream scoop or large spoon instead of a knife. Once the jack-o-lantern is finished, it is safer to use a light stick or battery operated candle rather than a flame to illuminate it. Painting or decorating the pumpkin without cutting it may be a safer alternative if you wish to avoid using sharp instruments around your children.
As you prepare your home for Halloween, make certain that your doorway is well lit. Clear your yard of obstacles that could trip visitors. Avoid giving small, hard candies to young children who could choke. Keep pets away from the guests because they may frighten some children and vice versa.
When choosing a costume, consider safety. Avoid dark clothing that is difficult to see at night. Face make-up is preferable to a mask that can impede vision or obstruct breathing. Choose flame retardant costumes because many homes will have candles inside their pumpkins. Do not use awkward shoes or baggy clothing that could trip a child. Discourage the use of props with sharp points. Remember the experience will be better for everyone if the costume is comfortable.
Children are twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween then any other day. Therefore, discuss safety rules before heading out to trick or treat. Children less than13 should be accompanied by an adult. Older children should stay in a group and have an established route and curfew. Flash-lights and cell phones are important safety equipment. If costumes are dark in color, use reflective tape. Talk to your children about what to do if they get lost or separated from the group. Make certain they know a phone number where you can be reached. For small children, consider taping their name, address and phone number to their backs. Limit trick or treating to streets and homes where you know the residents. Never walk through alleys or across lawns. Cross streets with caution using a cross walk whenever possible.
You will save yourself a lot of grief if you and your children have an understanding about the consumption of Halloween candy. Since it is bad for their teeth and health, limits are important. Before your children leave the house to trick or treat, feed them a good meal and remind them not to eat anything until you have made sure it is safe. Examine the goodies in a well lit place. Make certain things are safely sealed inside packages with no evidence of tampering. Throw out unwrapped candy or homemade treats from people you do not know. Know how much candy your children have and store it in a secure place. Set limits on the number of treats they can have per day. Leaving goodies out in the open can be an irresistible temptation for some children. After an agreed upon date, leftover candy should be tossed out or given away.
Cobb Pediatrics would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy Halloween.