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Halloween Kids and Safety

This Halloween kids will be trick or treating and enjoying their costumes, candy and fun. However, it is also a time when danger lurks and parents must take precautions to ensure their kids’ safety and fun. On this Halloween, kids face another challenge: H1N1. In addition to the usual safety tips, parents should take extra care to protect their children from the H1N1 virus. This can be done by both parents and well-meaning neighbors who stay home to hand out candy.

Those who stay home this Halloween can help reduce the spread of the H1N1 virus by using a scoop to dispense candy and treats to children. Typically, many citizens let children reach into a candy bowl to select their goodies. This isn’t an advisable practice this year as more hands mean a greater chance of the virus’ spread. Using a scoop will help solve the problem. Parents are also advised to bring hand sanitizer and to make certain that they and their children use it frequently.

Fire safety is an important aspect of Halloween, especially since many choose to use lit candles in jack-o-lanterns. To ensure a safe Halloween, kids should use glow sticks or flashlights instead of fire. Teach children to be observant and if they see a Jack-o-lantern or other source of flame to keep their distance. Costumes should be flame resistant and safe for children as well. Avoid long, billowy rolls of fabrics that could catch on fire and make sure that costumes aren’t too long as children could trip and fall, causing injury.

On Halloween, kids will do plenty of walking and they will need ample light as well as proper shoes. Choosing tennis shoes or sneakers is preferable to ill fitted shoes that are part of a costume. Flashlights are essential, but glow sticks may be substituted for lighting. Some parents choose to add glow sticks to their kids’ costumes. This is a fun and unobtrusive way to ensure your child can see easily.

To ensure a safe Halloween, kids should be taught not to enter homes when trick or treating. Only approach homes that are well-lit and where residents are clearly at home. Though kids can’t wait to eat their Halloween candy, it’s imperative to wait until the candy has been brought home and inspected before eating. This will also reduce the risk of the H1N1 virus, as children won’t be placing their hands to their mouths.

If choosing masks make sure that the child can see easily and that their vision is not hindered. Face paint is a good choice, but double check the ingredients and use products that have been approved for children’s safety.

By taking these safety tips into consideration, you can rest assured that your kids will have a fun and safe Halloween.