Keeping Kids Safe – Halloween Reminders for Next Year

It is never too early to start planning for next year!  With so many people celebrating this past Halloween , we thought we would take a moment to highlight some issues that we usually see after Halloween with hopes of preventing injuries in the future.  Halloween is one of the most exciting holidays for children. With all of the anticipation leading up to the big day, children can easily forget all that you’ve taught them about staying safe. While the day and evening should both be enjoyable, the sad truth is that the potential for injury is ever present.

Here are some tips to consider before you head out in search of the best candy in the neighborhood.

1. Watch for Drivers

One of the largest causes of injury during trick-or-treat is accidents with vehicles. Children are struck by cars for a variety of reasons, but most often it is because one didn’t see the other. Make sure your children are highly visible. This may mean putting reflective tape on their costumes, having them carry a flashlight or both. You can even attach glow sticks to your child’s outfit to make them more visible.

2. Properly Fitting Costumes

There are so many costumes on the market today that it can be hard to choose just one. No matter which one your child finally settles on, make sure the costume fits properly. Bottoms shouldn’t drag on the ground and there shouldn’t be any sharp objects attached to it.

3. Supervise

Children, no matter how old, should not be permitted to trick-or-treat alone. Make sure there is at least one adult with a group of children who can be on the lookout for potential danger.

4. Your Own Home

Make sure your property is well lit, that any sidewalk or driveway damage is repaired or blocked off and your decorations aren’t hazardous.

5. Watch the Candy

Chances are that you take a close look at the loot your child collects before you let them dig in. You should also be watching the candy that you are handing out. Before you pass out a morsel to an unsuspecting ghoul, be sure to check that none of the packaging has been tampered with and that the candy is within the expiration date.

6. Shoes Matter

If clever shoes are a part of your child’s costume, they should still be able to walk in them. Pointy witch shoes and oversized clown shoes may make a costume come together, but they can make it easier for your child to slip and fall. Your child should wear sensible shoes with good traction if they will be walking from house to house.

If you ever have questions about an injury that occurred because someone else was negligent, please call our office for a free consultation and learn more about your options. We are here to assist you – reach out to our office now or browse our website for more information about our firm and the types of cases we handle.