Friday, October 29, 2010

Fact Friday - Halloween Safety Tips


Halloween is such an exciting time of the year for kids and we all want to make sure that children have a safe holiday with the following tips from the AAP. Dr Lynch found this article and asked we share it with our "blogging" friends!

"13 Halloween Safety Tips for Little Ghost and Goblins"

ALL DRESSED UP

1- Because they can obstruct a child's vision, mask are not recommended. If a child wears makeup, parents should look for non-toxic, hypoallergenic kits.

2- Costumes should be flame-retardant and fit properly. Avoid oversized shoes, high heels and long skirts or pants that could cause a child to fall.

3- Children who will be trick-or-treating after dusk should have reflective tape on their costumes and carry a flashlight.

CARVING A NICHE

4- Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers, then parents can do the cutting. Under parents' supervision, children ages 5-10 can carve a pumpkin with cutters equipped with safety bars.

5- Battery operated lights or votives are best for candlelit pumpkins.

6- Lighted pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects and should never be left unattended.

(....blogger note, my children are small so we carved orange peppers and it was great because they have a softer skin and look very similar to a pumpkin)

SWEET TREATS

7- Children shouldn't snack while they're trick-o-treating. Parents should check treats at home.

8- Watch for signs of tampering, such as small pink holes in wrappers and torn or loose packages.

9- Parents of young children should get rid of choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies or small toys.

HOME SAFE HOME

10- To keep their home safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove anything a child could trip over such as a garden house, toys, bikes or lawn decorations.

11- Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.

12- Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.

13- Remember that Halloween is for children all ages....so get involved with your little ghost or goblin!!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween from all of us at Willow Creek Pediatrics

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