Halloween night is always a special time of year, particularly for kids. The imagination can run wild to dress-up for the night, plus there’s the bonus of candy! Power County Hospital wants to take this opportunity to remind parents and children of the dangers that can occur on Halloween, so that everyone can make it a safe and fun night.
First, according to that National Safety Council, the number one cause of injuries on Halloween night is accidental falls from tripping on costumes, steps, curbs, or unseen objects. But even more startling is that four times more children are killed annually in pedestrian/automobile accidents on this holiday night, than on any other night of the year! So one of the most important things for parents to remember on Halloween is to escort and watch their children when going from door to door on the streets. Some other tips to remember include:
- Adults should accompany and supervise all children.
- Make sure your costume fits and lets you see and hear, to watch and listen for cars.
- Wear brightly colored clothing.
- Carry a flashlight, glow-stick, or flashing light so that you are seen by drivers.
- Trick-or-treat in your own neighborhood or accept goodies from people you know.
- Forget the tricks. Leave the toilet paper at home. Don’t throw eggs and cause damage.
- Inspect ALL goodies in the bag before children dig in.
- Don’t allow them to eat the entire bag in a wild, sugar frenzy. Dole it out gradually.
There are also injuries that children and their parents may receive during the days leading up to Halloween, such as cuts and burns related to turning a pumpkin into a jack-o’-lantern. Please be extra careful and remember that small children should just draw the jack-o’-lantern design on the outside with a marker and let someone older do the cutting. Kids who are old enough are encouraged to use a special kit or pumpkin cutter that has a serrated edge. Battery operated candles are also recommended as a safe alternative for lighting the pumpkins. Power County Hospital hopes that everyone will have a safe and fun Halloween and we’ll see you at the hospital for trick-or-treating!