The fun and excitement of Halloween can be spoiled by injuries - most of which can be avoided.
Utah Safety Council says falls are a leading cause of accidents on Halloween. Most injuries involve steps, uneven pavement and other obstacles that, in the dark, are difficult to see.Other accidents involve flammable and cumbersome costumes, wigs and masks and motorists who have difficulty seeing children who are wearing dark costumes at night.
The following tips can help keep children on their feet:
-Use face paint or cosmetics, which are safer than a mask that can obstruct a child's vision. If a mask is worn, cut eye holes large enough to allow full vision, and be sure the mask fits securely.
-Give trick-or-treaters flashlights so they can see and be seen.
-Make costumes short enough so children don't trip over them.
-Secure hats so they don't fall over children's eyes.
-Dress children in shoes that fit. Grownups' high heels are not safe for little children to walk in.
-Do not allow children to carry knives, swords or other props unless they are soft and flexible. Anything they carry could hurt them in a fall.
-Warn children not to cut across lawns where they can trip over lawn ornaments or run into clotheslines. Tell them to stay on sidewalks.
-Decorate or trim costumes and trick-or-treat bags with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights.
-Look for flame-resistant labels on costumes, masks, beards and wigs.
-Motorists should not wear masks while driving and should slow down in residential neighborhoods and watch out for children walking in the streets or on medians and curbs.
-If you drive children on their trick-or-treat rounds, be sure they exit and enter the car on the curb side away from traffic.
-Young children should always be accompanied by adults who will watch over the children at all times.
-Instruct children to travel only in familiar areas and over pre-established routes, and establish a time for them to return home.
-Make your home safe for trick-or-treaters with lights and by removing obstacles on steps, porches or walkways.
-Check treats before children eat them to ensure they are safe.