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kids pediatrician
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Keeping Your Children Safe on Halloween

Halloween is usually a fun time for many parents and children. Getting to put on a costume and collect a tooth numbing amount of candy always brings excitement to the little ones. However, it is important to remain vigilant so that your children can stay safe during this fun holiday.

 

Dressing up:

  • Consider reflective costumes. Think about adding either a reflective band or tape to your child’s clothing or candy bag so that they will be more visible.
  • Make sure their shoes are comfortable and fit well. Also, be aware that your child’s costume is not dragging on the floor to prevent instances such as tripping or becoming tangled.
  • Be sure to purchase costumes that are “Flame Resistant”.this will ease the thought that your child could be in increased danger if they come into contact with anything flammable.
  • Consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives to masks.
  • Try to purchase makeup that is non-toxic and encourage them to use hats and not masks.Hats should sit on top of their head and not cover their eyes. Makeup should be tested on a small patch of your child’s skin prior to application on the face so that potential allergies or reactions to the makeup, can be avoided. There have been many toxic ingredients in makeup that is targeted towards tweens and teens.
  • Avoid any accessories with pointy or long swords, canes, or sticks. Pointy and long items are a hazard to your child and other children (especially if they are being yielded around). Your child can also be hurt by these accessories if he or she stumbles or trips.
  • Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and a prescription from an eye care professional. While decorative lenses are fashionable and interesting, they will often make the false claim that they are “one size fits all”. It is illegal and dangerous to obtain decorative lenses without a prescription from an eye care practitioner therefore, assure you are taking proper measures for you or your child if you wish to use these kinds of lenses. Failing to do so may result in; pain, swelling, eye infections and even permanent vision loss.
  • If you have a little one, be sure to bring a backup costume. Toilet accidents, spit up and the typical messes that comes with babies can happen within the blink of an eye. By bringing a backup, you will be prepared incase anything goes wrong.

 

Your Front Yard:

  • Put away any items that could be tripping hazards. Keep your porch and front yard clear of items like; hoses, toys, scooters, or decorations.
  • Assure that all outdoor lights are working for more visibility.
  • Keep the sidewalk and driveway dry, to prevent a slip and fall.
  • Put pets either inside of on leashes to prevent accidents or bites. While most pets are friendly, some can be dangerous. 5% of children between the ages of 5-9 are bitten by an animal every year. It is imperative that you watch your child around all animals – including your own.

 

Trick-or-Treat:

  • Never allow your young child to walk around the neighborhood alone.If you have older children that are going alone, be aware of their whereabouts and create a plan that works for you and your child. Provide them with flashlights and give them a time they must return home by.
  • Don’t know what to do? Take a look at your local newspaper or recreation center for Halloween activities near your area.
  • Avoid homes that are not well lit.
  • Never enter anybody’s home or car for a treat. If someone is trying to get you in their home or car, notify law enforcement authorities immediately about of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
  • Make sure your children know how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number)
  • Carry a cellphone at all times. This will allow you to communicate with your children or family members quickly if needed.
  • Stay in a group to avoid vulnerability

 

Be Cautious of the Treats:

  • Be sure to watch what your child has in his or her mouth at all times. Though tampering is rare, it can happen. A responsible parent should open their child’s bag of goodies and look at every single item. Inspect treats for anything suspicious like unwrapped candies, candy foreign to you or simply if it looks spoiled. Throw anything away that gives you reasonable doubt. Keep in mind that small babies should not eat things like; popcorn, gum, seeds or hard candies. Items like toys, stickers and tattoos can be choking hazards so be sure to remove any items that can be of harm to your child.
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