A to Z having a safe Halloween

Halloween and Harvest Day are fun times for children of all ages. These celebrations also provide a chance to give out healthy snacks, engage in physical activity and focus on safety.

Check out these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help make the festivities fun and safe for trick-or-treaters and party guests.

Going trick-or-treating?

S Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and  flexible. 
A Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
F Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
E Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. 


H Hold a flashlight to help you see and others see you. Always WALKand don't run.

A  Always test make-up in a small area first.

L Look both ways before crossing the street. Use crosswalks wherever possible.

L  Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
O Only walk on sidewalks, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe. 
W Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.
E Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats.
E Enter homes with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses and avoid dark houses. 
N Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Expecting trick-or-treaters or party guests?

  
Follow these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for everyone:

• Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as low-calorie treats. For party guests, offer a variety of fruits, vegetables and cheeses.
  
• Use party games and trick-or-treat time as an opportunity for kids to get their daily dose of 60 minutes of physical activity.
  
• Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles that could result in falls.
  
• Keep candle-lit “jack o'lanterns” and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways, landings and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
  
• Remind those driving to the party to watch out for trick-or-treaters on the streets.

  
Contributed by Doug Fleischli, MA Fairmont Private Schools
Image Credit: highlandvillage.org