Frightening Facts About Halloween and Ways to Stay Safe

It is the time of year when Halloween candy is flying off supermarket shelves and kids are getting excited to show off their costumes. Many happy memories are made on this special day, but it is important to remember that there are also safety hazards on Halloween.

According to Safe Kids USA – an organization that works to prevent childhood personal injury – it is a sad fact that children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a car while walking on Halloween night than any other day of the year. Other common Halloween injuries include eye injuries, burns, and puncture wounds.

But keeping safety in mind and being prepared before your children go trick-or-treating can ensure it will be a fun-filled and memorable time.

Halloween Safety Tips

Before your little witches, ghosts, and goblins step out into the night – even if you are going with them – have a talk about safety. The following are a few tips for staying safe on Halloween:

• Choose costumes that are brightly colored if possible, and make sure that both costumes and wigs are flame-resistant
• Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags
• Provide flashlights for children and adults
• Make sure costumes are properly fitted with training ties or materials to avoid tripping
• Be sure to choose only those accessories that are soft and pliable rather than sharp
• Avoid walking too close to carved pumpkins or lanterns that may be lit with candles
• Choose non-toxic makeup over masks to ensure kids can see clearly
• Avoid decorative contact lenses without a prescription from an eye doctor
• Always cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks
• Watch out for cars that are turning or may be backing up
• Leave electronic devices at home
• Do not eat candy until it has been inspected by an adult
• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult

If you are expecting trick-or-treaters at your door, here are a few safety tips to keep them safe when they arrive:

• Make sure your lights are on for better visibility – check bulbs before the visitors start arriving
• Remove any tripping hazards from your yard and walkway – such as toys, garden hoses, toys, and bikes
• Remove wet leaves from paths and steps to prevent a slip and fall
• Restrain pets from jumping

St. Clair County Accident Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC Assist Injured Parents and Children

Even when you take responsible safety precautions, accidents can happen. If you or a loved one has been injured because of someone else’s irresponsibility or negligence, we will work hard to uphold your rights and recover the financial compensation you need to get on with your life. Please call a St. Clair County accident lawyer at The Cates Law Firm, LLC at 618-277-3644 or contact us online for a free evaluation of your case. Our offices are conveniently located in Swansea, Illinois and we represent clients in the communities of Belleville, Edwardsville, St. Clair County, and throughout the Southern Illinois and Metro East region.