Family & Consumer Science News
Halloween Safety Tips
By Terri Black County Extension Agent

In the last few years, trick-ortreating has become a more organized community event. Churches,

schools, and malls often sponsor sup ervised events. Some parents disagree with the underlying messages of trick-or-treating, so they sometimes organize Halloween parties for neighborhood youngsters. If your youngsters take part in tradi- tional Halloween customs, here are some safety tips:

All Dressed Up

Masks are not recommended because they can obstruct a child's vision. If your child wears makeup, you should look for nontoxic, hypoallergenic kits. Costumes should be flame-retardant and fit properly. Avoid oversized shoes, high heels and long skirts or pants that could cause a child to fall. Children who will be trickor treating after dusk should have reflective tape on their costumes and carry flashlights.

Carving a Niche Small children should never carve pumpkins. Instead, have them draw a face with markers, and then an adult can do the cutting. Under adult supervision, children ages 5 to 10 can safely carve with pumpkin cutters equipped with safety bars. Also, pumpkin painting is a safe and popular option for younger children. When lighting your pumpkin, votive candles are the safest option. Lighted pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy surface, away from curtains and other flammable objects and should never be left unattended.

Sweet Treats

Children shouldn't snack while they're trick-or-treating. Check all treats at home.

Watch for signs of tampering, such as small pinholes in wrappers and torn or loose packages. If you have young children, get rid of choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, balloons, hard candies or small toys.

Home Safe Home

To keep your home safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, remove anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations. Check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs to make sure there's good visibility at your door and the approach to it. Sweep wet leaves from sidewalks and steps to reduce the chance youngsters will slip and fall.