Halloween brings plenty of excitement to families in Englewood and throughout the Denver metro area. Kids dress up, neighbors decorate their homes and families head outside for an evening of trick-or-treating, parties and other Halloween activities.
With so much activity taking place after dark, Halloween can also bring an increased risk of minor injuries. Trips, falls, scrapes and costume-related accidents can happen quickly, especially when children are focused on collecting candy and navigating busy sidewalks and streets.
The good news is that many common Halloween hazards can be avoided with a little preparation. From choosing a safe costume to practicing pedestrian safety, these Halloween safety tips can help families in Englewood and surrounding communities enjoy a fun and safer holiday.
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What Are the Biggest Halloween Safety Concerns for Kids?
For many families, the biggest concerns are visibility, falls, unsafe costumes and distractions around the street. Children may be excited and moving from house to house while drivers are navigating streets with more pedestrians than usual.
Before leaving home, establish a few simple rules. Children should know where they are allowed to walk, who they should stay with and what to do before crossing a street.
For younger children, an adult should remain with them. Older children who go with friends should have a planned route and a specific time to return home.
The NHTSA recommends that pedestrians use a buddy system and reminds drivers to watch carefully for trick-or-treaters in residential areas.
How Can You Make a Halloween Costume Safer?
A costume should allow children to see clearly and walk without difficulty. That may mean making a few changes to the outfit before your child heads outside.
A cape that looked great in the house may become a tripping hazard on a sidewalk. A mask that completes the costume may make it harder to see approaching cars. High-heeled costume shoes may look convincing but can make walking more difficult.
Before leaving for the evening, check that:
- The costume fits without dragging on the ground.
- Your child can see clearly through or around the mask.
- Shoes fit securely and are comfortable for walking.
- Costume accessories do not have sharp edges.
- Reflective tape or bright colors make your child easier to see.
- A flashlight is available for walking after dark.
The CPSC also recommends costumes that are appropriately fitted and advises families to consider flame-resistant materials and visibility when choosing costumes.
What Should Parents Know About Halloween Decorations?
Halloween decorations can add plenty of atmosphere, but they should not create obstacles for trick-or-treaters.
If you are welcoming children to your home, take a walk around your property before the evening begins. Move garden tools, hoses, toys and other objects away from sidewalks and steps. Make sure outdoor areas are adequately lit.
Be particularly careful with candles. A child walking up to a porch may not notice an open flame near a doorway, especially if they are wearing a loose costume. Battery-operated lights or glow sticks can provide a safer alternative for many decorations.
The CPSC recommends keeping open flames away from costumes and using flameless lighting for jack-o'-lanterns when possible.
How Can Families Handle Halloween Candy Safely?
The excitement does not have to end when the trick-or-treating does. Once everyone gets home, make time to go through the candy together.
Children should wait until an adult has examined their treats before eating them. Parents should also consider the age of each child when checking candy, toys and novelty items.
For toddlers and younger children, small objects may pose a choking hazard. Setting aside treats that are not age appropriate can help make the post-trick-or-treating routine safer.
What If a Halloween Injury Happens?
A minor accident does not necessarily mean your family's Halloween plans have to turn into a trip to the emergency room. However, some injuries do need prompt medical attention.
If your child experiences a fall, cut, sprain or other non-life-threatening injury, AFC Urgent Care Englewood can provide convenient medical evaluation.
AFC Urgent Care Englewood is located at 901 W Hampden Ave, Suite 103, in Englewood, making it a convenient option for families who need urgent care.
Need care after an unexpected Halloween injury? Visit AFC Urgent Care Englewood for convenient walk-in medical care.
Keep Halloween Fun and Safe
The goal is not to take the fun out of Halloween. It is to make a few smart preparations so kids can concentrate on costumes, candy and time with friends.
Before your family heads out in Englewood, check the costume, grab a flashlight and review basic pedestrian safety. Once the candy comes home, give it a quick inspection before the treats are opened.
With those simple steps, families can enjoy a safer Halloween throughout Englewood and the surrounding Denver area.
When an unexpected illness or injury cannot wait for a regular doctor's appointment, visit AFC Urgent Care Englewood for convenient care.