Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have a safe holiday here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Los Angeles Fire Department:
1. Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Add reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
2. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
3. Costumes/accessories should be flame resistant.
4. All children should carry flashlights.
5. Teach children to how call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost. 9-1-1 can be dialed free at any payphone.
6. Discuss proper and improper Halloween behavior.
7. Small children should never carve pumpkins.
8. Plan and review with your children the route which is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.
9. Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.
10. A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on treats.
11. Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
12. Try to portion treats for the days after Halloween.
13. A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their rounds.
14. Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
15. Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.
16. Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity

The Bottom Line

Common sense should prevail in all things we do, especially when it comes to the health and well-being of our children. Chiropractors have been at the forefront of the children's wellness revolution and strongly urge that you have your child's nerve system assessed to assure proper function and development. "It's Better to Grow Healthy Kids than Repair Damaged Adults."