As Halloween approaches, taking a few safety precautions can ensure that trick-or-treaters and their families have a safe and enjoyable autumn holiday.
“Travel in small groups and use the buddy system,” says Dr. Paul Pepe, chief of emergency medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center.
Dr. Pepe also makes these suggestions:
Check the labels of costumes to make sure they are flame resistant.
Masks, beards and wigs should be flame safe and fit properly to prevent them from sliding over the eyes.
Make sure there is adult supervision for young children on their neighborhood rounds.
Put reflective tape on costumes and treat bags and always carry a flashlight.
Don’t run or cross the street between parked cars.
Exclude unfamiliar residences and check treats at home before eating them.
“And remember to say, ‘Thank you,'” Dr. Pepe says.