As far as the kiddos go, Halloween remains a favorite holiday. What’s not to like about dressing up in silly or outlandish costumes and asking for candy from relative strangers?
But the fun can be tempered by the unusual risks this autumn holiday presents. Do you know that Halloween has a 43% uptick in fatalities alone? Read on for ways parents can make the evening safer for their children.
1. Costumes should be well-fitting and accessible
Due to tripping hazards, no costume should fall below the ankles of the child wearing it. As for creative costumes consisting of rigid boxes, consider how a kid can access curbs and steps without falling and getting hurt.
Parents can put their heads together and come up with unique but safe costumes that pose fewer dangers to their children.
2. There’s safety in numbers
Parents should always supervise the 12-and-under set, but even solo teens shouldn’t head off on their own. Kids stay safer traveling in groups. It’s also a good idea to have them start and finish trick-or-treating at a house with parental supervision to prevent other problems.
3. Teach them safety rules
Children should be taught by ages five or six to only cross the street at crosswalks. Darting out from between cars imperils youngsters and causes inattentive drivers to strike them, often with tragic results.
If your child gets hit on Halloween
Arrange transport for your child to the nearest medical facility for assessment and treatment. Follow the doctor’s instructions about after-care. It may be necessary for you to file a claim against the negligent driver who struck your child. By acting in their stead, you can ensure that their needs are met, and that they may receive compensation for any losses and damages they suffer.