Halloween can be a time of excitement, adventure and, of course, treats for little ones. But it's also a time to talk about safety when they venture out for a night of trick-or-treating.
Costumes
Picking the right costume is a major decision for a child. For parents, there are a few things to look for to ensure a safe evening. The No. 1 cause of injuries on Halloween is accidental falls from tripping on costume hems, curbs, steps or unseen objects. Costumes should be short enough so children won't trip and fall and the child should be able to walk normally. Well-fitted and sturdy shoes are recommended as well.
Costumes should be inspected to ensure they are flame resistant -- this indicates costumes should resist burning and extinguish quickly. Flimsy fabrics, billowing skirts or baggy sleeves should be avoided since they could easily come into contact with open flames.
Bright costumes are more visible to motorists, but if you cannot purchase or make one -- reflective tape and stickers, flashlights or glow sticks can help make a child more visible in the night.
Tie hats and scarves carefully so they do not slip and obscure a child's vision. Masks also should fit securely and eye holes should be large enough to provide full vision.
Face paint and makeup should be inspected by parents and tested on a small patch of the child's arm or leg a day or two before Halloween to ensure there isn't a risk or rash or allergies.
On the street
On Halloween, children should be escorted and watched to avoid being hit by a car. Several factors can cause a child to be in a car's path: a child's short stature; inability to react quickly; lack of impulse control; the child is distracted by all of the excitement; and the urge to get candy.
Those younger than 12 should not be alone while trick-or-treating. Older children should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and stay in groups.
The trick-or-treating route should be clear of dangerous roads. Children should be instructed to look both ways before crossing a street and continue looking while crossing. It's important that children know to walk and not run across the road. Teach them to make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure they are seen.
Always walk on sidewalks or paths, if one is not available -- children should walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Also, watch for cars that are turning or backing up and never dart into the street or cross between parked cars.
Treats
All treats should be inspected for tampering. Candy should not be eaten if the package has been opened. Small, hard candy is a choking hazard for young children.
Driving on Halloween night
For motorists, it's important to be vigilant and alert for children -- especially in residential areas. Slow down and take extra time to look for children at intersections, on medians and curbs.
Enter and exit driveways slowly and carefully. Anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day. Remember, popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30-9:30 p.m.
If you do encounter an accident or emergency, the emergency room at Siloam Springs Regional Hospital is here for you and your family 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To learn more about our services, visit SSRH.net today.
About Siloam Springs Regional Hospital
Siloam Springs Regional Hospital is a 73 licensed-bed facility with 42 private patient rooms. It is accredited by the State of Arkansas Department of Health Services and The Joint Commission. Some services include inpatient and outpatient surgery, emergency medicine, medical, surgical and intensive care units, obstetrics, outpatient diagnostic services and inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. With more than 30 physicians on the medical staff, Siloam Springs Regional Hospital provides compassionate, customer-focused care. SSRH is an affiliate of Northwest Health, one of the largest health networks in Northwest Arkansas. The facility is located at 603 N. Progress Ave. in Siloam Springs, Ark. For more information, visit SSRH.net.
Editorial on 10/26/2016