Life
9 Things You Think Are Safe On Halloween, But Probably Aren't
As Halloween approaches, you're more than likely running around gathering pieces for DIY costumes, buying trick-or-treat candy, and (hopefully) pausing to watch a few Halloween classics before getting back to costume planning. In the midst of the Halloween hustle though, it's important for parents to think through a few of the things you may think are safe for Halloween but actually aren't.
Of course, Halloween isn't usually considered an "unsafe" holiday — it's a chance to get dressed up, go trick-or-treating, and eat copious amounts of candy while watching scary movies, right? But, like any holiday or event, in order for everyone to enjoy the holiday without worry or accident, taking a few precautions in advance is a good idea (read: v necessary.)
Some of these precautions may seem silly, or even overly protective, but as a parent, you can never be too careful, since you know your kids aren't likely to take these precautions for themselves. Whether you're a class A helicopter mom or the type that prefers to live and let live, thinking through Halloween safety should be priority number one.
Whether it has to do with costume safety, the snacks you bring home, or the neighborhood you explore while trick-or-treating, thinking about safety first will ensure that you can relax and enjoy the candy-filled night once it rolls around.
1All Black Costumes
As common and appropriate as all black costumes are (batman, a cat, and vampires, just to name a few), Safe Kids suggested that both kids and adults stay away from wearing entirely black ensembles simple for the risk of not being seen by cars or pedestrians when out walking. Instead, use reflective tape, lights, or lighter colors on your costumes to make sure that cars and other trick-or-treaters can see you or your child clearly.
2Full-Face Masks
As fun as masks are, the aforementioned Safe Kids article suggested painting your child's face with non-toxic face paint instead. Not only can face masks make visibility limited, they can make it even harder for your child to be seen.
3Letting Kids Go Out In A Group
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) noted that although it may be tempting to allow your older child to go out with a group of friends, even just around the block, all children should be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating.
4Long Capes
It may sound silly, but with all of the mini-wonder women and other caped crusaders gallivanting off on Halloween, the aforementioned AAP article noted that costumes should be a safe length, to prevent tripping or falling.
5Color Contacts That Aren't Approved
The FDA noted that color costume contacts that are sold without a prescription are illegal. Color contacts aren't "cosmetic" or "over the counter." They're medical devices that, if not fitted and worn properly, can cause major damage to the eyes.
6Carving Pumpkins Without Adult Supervision
It goes without saying that no kiddo should be in charge of pumpkin carving — even if you have the "safety knives."
7Lighting Your Jack-O-Lantern With An Actual Flame
Although nowadays, most Jack-o-lanterns are lit via battery powered light, putting a flame in one increases the risk of burning or fire if it accidentally gets bumped or knocked over, the aforementioned AAP article noted.
8Not Reviewing Road Safety Before Trick-Or-Treating
A not widely known, but sobering fact is that, according to Safe Kids, children are more than twice as likely to get hit by a car on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Make sure that your child understands proper road safety and won't be walking alone on Halloween.
9Eating All Your Halloween Loot
To prevent allergic reactions or other illnesses, the CDC recommends eating only factory wrapped candy from people you trust.
