Halloween with Care: Keep the spirit of safety in mind this year

By Jen Ryan Mauck, Contributing Writer


To make sure things don't go bump in the night, here are some important tips on having a safe and healthy trick or treating journey.
Candy Craze
Tips for parents
To ensure your kiddos don't get sick, follow these easy steps:
  • Inspect all treats for choking hazard or package tampering. If the candy is unwrapped, toss it.
  • Kids get a sugar rush, but coming down can be cruel. Limit the amount of treats they eat and ration the candy for the next several weeks.
  • Tell your children to avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
  • If your child has a food allergy, be prepared with their emergency medicines or Epi-pens. To avoid using them at all, talk to your child about the candies that are safe and unsafe for them to eat. Then be sure to sort through the candy bag and separate out those edibles that might cause an allergic reaction. When in doubt, throw it out!
Double, Double, Toil and Trouble
Tips for kids and teens
Safeguard your trick-or-treating experience by adhering to the following:
  • Don't trick-or-treat alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
  • Bring a flashlight if the area is not well-lit.
  • Secure reflective tape to costumes, strollers or bikes to help drivers see you.
  • Try to purchase flame-resistant materials or wigs for costumes; be cautious around candles.
  • Only go to homes with a porch light on.
  • Always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk on the side of the road facing traffic.
  • Call 911 if you have an emergency or are lost.
  • Do not feed any animals candy. Chocolate can be extremely dangerous and may even be deadly for some pets.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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