Remember when Halloween was an occasion for nothing but harmless fun?
Or when the only warnings that had to be issued were those designed to keep young ghosts and goblins from getting so rambunctious they turned friendly neighbors into aloof strangers?Fortunately, this celebration still retains much of its innocent joy for young tricksters and old treaters like.
But there are still enough tainted treats and other potential hazards to make a few safety reminders in order.
As the Utah Safety Council notes, "The worst dangers on Halloween are from falls, flammable costumes and pedestrian and car accidents." To describe the problem is to prescribe much of the cure, such as:
- Design costumes so children can walk, see and be seen easily. Masks, wigs and beards can restrict breathing and vision, so use face makeup instead. Costumes should be short enough to prevent tripping, and shoes should be comfortable and fit well. Light-colored material, reflective tape and flashlights will help motorists see the youngster.
- Buy flame-retardant costumes and material. Make costumes so that your youngster can wear warm clothing underneath.
- Make knives, swords and other accessories out of cardboard. Never let children carry sharp objects.
- Parents should either accompany youngsters or instruct them to walk only in a familiar area and on a previously established route. Emphasize that they are to stop only at houses with a light on and should never enter a house unless the resident is a friend of the family.
- Avoid using bicycles. Costumes can get caught in the chains and spokes. Walk on the sidewalks, not in the streets. If sidewalks are not available, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic. Don't run out between parked cars.
- Have children save their treats until they have been inspected by their parents. Give children a good meal before they go out. That way, they will be less likely to eat their treats before mom or dad inspects them. Homemade items should be discarded unless you personally know who gave them to you.
Yes, we know that's a lot of advice to remember on an exciting evening devoted to disguises and potential pranks. But the happiest Halloween is still the one with the fewest hazards. So get out there and have some wholesome fun.