Tips for a Safe Halloween

Halloween is right around the corner!

Halloween is an exciting occasion for children and adults’ alike. It is a chance for fun and laughter.

From the candy to the costumes, Halloween is a fun-filled time for kids and parents.

To help make it a fun and safe Halloween, follow these simple safety tips.

Pumpkin Carving Safety

Carve in a Clean, Dry, Well-lit Area. Wash and thoroughly dry all of the tools that you will use, including: carving tools, knife, cutting surface, and your hands.
Always Have Adult Supervision. If under the age of 10- leave the carving to adults.
Use a Pumpkin Carving Kit. These are designed for the safest way for carving the pumpkin.

Be sure to keep the pumpkin seeds too! They are jam packed full of nutrition. Pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals like manganese and vitamin K, both of which are important in helping wounds heal. They also contain zinc, a mineral that helps the immune system fight bacteria and viruses. Pumpkin seeds are also an excellent source of: Phosphorus

Trick or Treat with Care

Join in on the fun. Accompany trick-or-treaters younger than age 12. A good idea is to also pin a piece of paper with your child’s name, address and phone number inside your child’s pocket in case you get separated. Encourage older kids to trick or treat with friends, parents or older siblings. Make sure someone in the group has a flashlight with fresh batteries as well! You can never be too prepared!
Set some ground rules. If your child will be trick-or-treating without you, trying planning a familiar route and set a curfew. Review safety rules, including staying with the group, walking only on the sidewalk, approaching only clearly lit homes, and never going inside a home or car for a treat. Have your child carry a cellphone.
Dress accordingly. It can get quite chilly this time of year so be sure you and your children are warm enough to be out for the night. You don’t want anyone catching cold!
Inspect the treats before indulging. Don’t let your child snack while they are trick-or-treating just to be safe. Especially if they have an allergy. You don’t want your child reaching in and grabbing something without knowing what it is and having a reaction! Inspect the treats before your child eats them. Discard anything that’s not sealed, has torn packaging or looks questionable. If you have young children, weed out gum, peanuts, hard candies and other choking hazards. If your child has food allergies, check candy labels carefully.
Try to ration the treats. If your child collects lots of goodies, consider doling out a few pieces at a time. You might ask your child if he or she would like to swap some — or all — of the candy for something else, such as a toy, book or outing.

Halloween comes once a year, make the most of it! Have fun and be safe!