Halloween is one of those nights when Southwest Charlotte neighborhoods come alive. Kids are dressed up, porches are decorated, and families are out collecting as much candy as possible. But with excited trick-or-treaters, dark sidewalks, costumes and plenty of treats involved, Halloween can also come with a few unexpected safety concerns.
A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping the night fun. From preventing trips and falls to helping children with food allergies safely enjoy Halloween, here are some simple tips for a safer night of trick-or-treating rather than spending the evening at AFC Southwest Charlotte.
Make Costumes Safe for Walking
A costume may look great, but it also needs to be easy to move around in. Costumes that are too long, oversized or difficult to see through can increase the risk of trips and falls.
Before heading out, make sure:
- Costumes fit properly and aren’t dragging on the ground.
- Shoes are comfortable and secure.
- Masks don’t block vision.
- Props are lightweight and easy to carry.
- Face paint is used safely and kept away from the eyes.
If the costume includes a mask, consider makeup or face paint instead if it allows your child to see more clearly.
Light Up the Night
Trick-or-treating often happens after sunset, making visibility especially important. Drivers may have difficulty seeing children in dark costumes, particularly when kids are crossing streets or moving between houses.
Add reflective tape, glow sticks or other bright, reflective accessories to costumes. Carrying a flashlight can also help children see uneven sidewalks, steps and other obstacles along the way. And, as always, use sidewalks when they’re available and look both ways before crossing the street.
Be Smart Around Candy and Food Allergies
For children with food allergies, Halloween can require a little extra planning. Don’t let kids start eating candy while they’re still out trick-or-treating. Instead, wait until you’re home so an adult can check the treats first.
Read ingredient labels carefully and watch for products that may contain or come into contact with common allergens. It’s also important to remind children not to trade candy with friends if they have a food allergy.
For kids with known severe allergies, families should follow their existing allergy action plan and have prescribed emergency medication available as directed.
If your child develops symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, fainting or severe difficulty swallowing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Watch for Common Halloween Injuries
Even the best-planned Halloween can come with a scraped knee, twisted ankle or other minor injury. Excited kids may run between houses, trip over decorations or stumble on uneven pavement.
Parents can help by reminding children to slow down, stay with their group and watch where they’re walking. Younger children should have an adult nearby, especially when crossing streets or navigating unfamiliar areas.
If an injury happens, take a moment to assess it rather than assuming it’s just a bump. Significant swelling, severe pain, difficulty putting weight on an injured limb or a wound that may need stitches are all reasons to have the injury evaluated.
What About Halloween Decorations?
Halloween decorations can create hazards for trick-or-treaters, too. Keep walkways clear of cords, decorations and other objects that could cause someone to trip. Make sure outdoor lighting is working and that steps and entrances are easy to see. If you’re handing out candy, keeping the path to your door well-lit and free of obstacles can help make your home safer for visitors.
Have a Fun and Safe Halloween in Southwest Charlotte
Halloween doesn’t have to be complicated to be safe. A well-fitting costume, good visibility, careful candy checks and a little attention to the walking path can help prevent many common problems. And if a Halloween mishap does happen, AFC Southwest Charlotte can help with many non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. For severe allergic reactions, serious injuries or other emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.