Halloween Safety Tips for Your Little Trick-or-Treater

Most kids love Halloween, and most parents love the opportunity to revel in this holiday through their children. So how can you have fun together and be safe at the same time? Here are some tips:

• Costume caveats. “Halloween costumes should allow full movement for your kids,” says John Drengenberg, consumer safety director for Underwriters Laboratories (UL). “Costumes that drag, constrict, or drape pose a trip hazard.” Purchase flame-resistant costumes and don’t forget the reflective tape, Drengenberg adds. Also, make sure masks don’t restrict your child’s vision – sometimes face paint is the better option. Power Capes are an option for design-your-own Halloween costume fun.
• Candy alternatives. Forced to police your child’s candy haul? Make your little one feel better by substituting the no-nos. Wikki Stix are one option. The self-stick, moldable, and reusable crafting tool does not contain latex, gluten, peanut, or other nut oils or byproducts.
• Douse the light. Jack o’ lantern candles are a hazard to curious babes. “Candles should be located away from areas where children in costumes could come in contact with them. Try battery-operated LED candles for a safer option,” recommends Drengenberg.
• Trick-or-treating alternatives. Is your little one too little to haunt? Check out other holiday-themed activities in the Germantown and Metro area to keep them busy at KidFriendly DC. Sites like this usually have info on safe trick-or-treating areas and groups, as well.

To get your kids into the spirit of a spooky but safe Halloween, check out the UL Trick or Treat Safety Quiz and UL Halloween Safety Guide. And, if you didn’t already realize it, this year’s Daylight Saving Time doesn’t end until Nov. 6 – that means an extra hour of light for your little ghosts and goblins!