OCTOBER IS HALLOWEEN SAFETY MONTH!

Halloween is an exciting time for kids—and parents too! But none of us want to see our children injured or in unsafe conditions.

Have The Talk--First!
Make sure you talk with your kids about the safety tips below from the National Safety Council and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Check and Double Check!

• Make sure that an adult or an older responsible youth will be supervising children under age 12.
• Plan and discuss the route Trick-Or-Treaters intend to follow.
• Instruct your children to travel only in familiar areas and along an established route.
• Tell your youngsters NOT to eat any treat until they return home.
• Teach your children to stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well-lit and never to enter a stranger's home.
• Establish a return time.

Costume Design!

• Masks can obstruct a child's vision. If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eye holes.
• Use only fire-retardant materials for costumes.
• Costumes should be loose so warm clothes can be worn underneath.
• Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard. (Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween.)
• Pin a slip of paper with your child's name, address and phone number inside a pocket in case he/she gets separated from the group.

Accessories!

• Knives, swords and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects.
• Bags or sacks carried by youngsters should be light-colored or trimmed with retro-reflective.
• Flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly.

Home, Safe Home!

• Remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
• Check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
• Restrain pets so they do not jump on or bite Trick-Or-Treaters.

For more information about Halloween Safety Month visit National Safety Council.

For 2007 Halloween Safety Tips, visit American Academy of Pediatrics.

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