Halloween is a fun holiday and a favorite for many kids and adults. Millions of children enjoy dressing in costume, trick or treating, and overloading on sugar. However, this holiday can also be very dangerous. Below are a few simple and important safety tips to keep in mind this Halloween to keep your children safe!

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Only buy flame-resistant or flame-retardant costumes.
Make sure costume masks don’t impede vision.
Carry flashlight and/or use reflective strips or clothing to increase visibility.
Don’t let your child go out trick or treating without an adult.
If the costume requires accessories such as a knife or sword, use only flexible props and not real ones (seems like a no-brainer, but…)
Inspect all candy before your child eats any.
Beware of small items that are choking hazards for young children.
If you are using candles in jack-o-lanterns or for other decorations, be sure and keep it away from other flammable and be sure to blow them out when not in use anymore and don’t leave them unattended.
Be extremely aware of vehicles in the road, as over 50% of motor vehicle accidents on Halloween are alcohol-related, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration!

**Startling Statistic – Children are 136% more likely to be killed or injured as pedestrians between 3pm and 9pm on Halloween**

With statistics like this one above, it’s no wonder that many of the Halloween promotional items such as trick or treat bags have safety tips printed on them.Be safe and enjoy your Halloween!

If by chance you do find yourself with a minor injury (or illness), you can always go see one of our clients, Gulf Coast Immediate Care in Fort Walton Beach, FL!