Halloween originated from several customs, the earliest of which dates back to Ireland in the fifth century B.C. As we know it today, the October 31 celebration is a fun way to dress up in sometimes scary costumes. Although this holiday is intended to be fun in nature, experts warn that precautions are needed to ensure that disguises are the only frightening things on All Hallows’ Eve. Everyone loves a good scare on Halloween, but not when it comes at the expense of children’s safety. The number one cause of injuries on Halloween night is accidental falls from tripping over hems of costumes, steps, curbs, or unseen objects, according to the National Safety Council. Even more startling, is that four times more children are injured annually in pedestrian / automobile accidents on that holiday night than on any other night of the year. It is also the only time of year parents allow their children to take candy from strangers, something you can never be too careful doing. Make sure your children understand the importance of avoiding eating any treats until an adult has properly examined them.
Hot Halloween Tips
- When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size and fit to prevent trips and falls.
- Decorate costumes, bags, accessories with reflective tape, stickers or glow sticks.
- If possible choose costumes with light colors. Masks can sometime obstruct a child’s vision; instead try using non-toxic face paint and makeup.
- Children under 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If children are mature enough to be out unsupervised then they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.
- The most popular trick-or treat times are between 5:30pm and 9:30pm. Drivers should be especially alert for children during those hours.
After Halloween Thoughts
- In some families, the Halloween Fairy, also known as the “Candy Fairy”, collaborates with the Tooth Fairy and will arrive and “trade” candy for a new toy.
- Pack away some of the better candies and use them in your Christmas baking treats.
- Keep a stash aside for future goodie bags at upcoming birthday parties.
- Glue candy pieces to an unfinished picture frame (Dollar stores are a good place to buy these). Add a photo and you’ve created a very “sweet” picture frame for someone special.
Additional candy experiments can be found here.
Safe Trick-or-Treating!!!
