Remember: More youngsters are struck by cars on Halloween than on any other day. Injuries from falls are also common.
Paramedics at AMR give these 13 Halloween safety tips:
1. It is crucial trick-or-treaters can see well and be seen easily. Avoid costumes with masks because masks can interfere with vision and hamper breathing. Instead, use makeup on the kids’ faces.
2. Go out in small groups. Decide on a definite route and timetable before leaving your house. Finish your trip before dark.
3. An adult should stay with and constantly watch all of the children. The younger the children, the more adults should be constantly present and alert. Keep the children together. Do not let them run ahead of their chaperones.
4. Costumes should be brightly colored, reflect light and have a label that says “flame retardant.” Stripe reflective tape across the front and back of the costume including the shoes. Give each child “glow in the dark” necklaces, bracelets or anklets called “glow sticks,” but do not let the children carry such items since they tie up one of the hands. Avoid hats, helmets, wigs, beards and capes.
5. Costumes should fit well, not so loosely as to trip over or snag on things. Wear flat shoes with closed toes that are the right size for the child. Avoid over-sized shoes such a clown would wear.
6. Keep at least one of each child’s hands free. Instead of letting a child carry a candy bag by hand, add a strap to the bag and drape the bag over the child’s shoulder. Be sure the bag doesn’t drag on the ground.
7. Give each child a flashlight to carry. The other hand should remain empty.
8. Stay on sidewalks and walkways, walk facing traffic, cross streets only at intersections, don’t run across lawns and don’t jump ditches.
9. Approach only those houses with outside lights on.
10. Trick-or-treaters should not enter any candy-giver’s home.
11. Do not allow the kids to eat any treats until the group returns home and an adult examines each bag. Eat nothing that is even slightly suspicious. Look for items that appear to have been unwrapped and then re-wrapped.
12. Dress appropriately for the weather, stay alert and keep handy a small first aid kit for scraped knees and other minor injuries. If a serious injury happens, dial 911 immediately.
13. Drivers should be especially vigilant for trick-or-treaters who might dart across the street. Moving flowerpots and other objects from porches and walkways will help prevent injuries from tripping and falling.
AMR says, “Boo!” to you, too! Serving 20 Mississippi counties, AMR companies are the state’s busiest ambulance services.
Operating in 20 Mississippi counties, AMR companies are the state’s busiest ambulance services.