Halloween Safety

Written by Calgary EMS

Here are some tips from Calgary EMS to keep your ghost or goblin safe this Halloween.

PARENTS

• Be sure younger trick-or-treaters are accompanied by an adult. Older children should stay in groups of three or more.
• Set boundaries for your children before they leave. Explain the importance of staying within those boundaries, and also returning home at a predetermined time.
• Advise your children not to eat anything until they get home. Dispose of any items that appear as though they may have been tampered with, or are not properly wrapped.
• Use extra care on the roads on Halloween night.

TRICK-OR-TREATERS

• Don't criss-cross back and forth across the street. It is best to work your way up one side of the street, and then start on the other. Cross at marked crosswalks or well-lit corners only.
• Stay away from houses that are not well lit. Never go inside a stranger's house, or accept a ride from a stranger.
• Let your parents know where you're going to be at all times and advise them if you will be late returning.
 

HOMEOWNERS

• Turn on outdoor lights and keep your yard clear of debris or obstacles that children could trip over.
• Keep lit candles away from trick-or-treaters. Use battery powered jack-o-lanterns where possible.
• Because some children have food allergies, you may want to consider giving treats other than candy, such as stickers, erasers, or yo-yo’s.
• Keep pets inside and away from trick-or-treaters and lit candles. They may become frightened or over-excited in the presence of strangers.

Calgary EMS also reminds parents and Trick-or-Treaters of the following safety tips: choose brightly-coloured costumes that will be clearly visible to motorists. Consider adding reflective tape to the costume for even greater visibility. When purchasing or making a costume, look for materials and accessories that are labeled flame-resistant. All costume accessories, such as swords or wands, should be soft and flexible and should not have any sharp edges. Instead of masks, try hypoallergenic, non-toxic make-up kits. Because masks may impair vision and breathing, make-up and face paint are a safer option. Lastly, consider Calgary weather on October 31 - be sure costumes are loose enough to be worn over warm clothing if the need arises, but not so baggy or long that it becomes a tripping hazard (the costume should not be longer than your child’s ankles.)