There was an estimated 3,500 Halloween-related injuries last year in October and November, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Incidents involved burns, lacerations associated with pumpkin carving, falls related to costumes that didn’t properly fit and injuries from crashes due to impaired vision. In 2011, pumpkin carving was linked with the most Halloween-related injuries.
Halloween Decorations
Use flameless candles outside your home and keep jack-o’-lanterns away from landings or where there will be people traffic.
Make sure the pathway to your front door is free of obstacles for expected trick-or-treaters.
Inside the home keep candles away from any flammable items such as curtains as they could ignite. Don’t leave any candles unattended.
Halloween Costumes
When purchasing your costume and accessories look for ‘flame-resistant’ fabrics.
Try and stick to brightly colored costumes so you can be seen easily by motorists.
Costumes should fit as snug as possible to avoid tripping and falling.
Halloween Candy
Children should know not to eat any candy before it is examined by an adult. Parents and caregivers should also check for small toys and items that might pose a choking hazard.
This is by no means an exhaustive list but some of the most important things to consider on the big candy day. Visit the CPSC Website for more Halloween safety tips and more. But most importantly, stay safe and have fun trick-or-treating!
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