Halloween is just around the corner. While little ones may be eager to attend trick or treating and harvest-themed events, it is important for adults to be aware of the risks. October 31st is one of the busiest nights of the year in terms of personal injuries. Slips and falls, burn injuries, and pedestrian accidents are all common. Take the time now to brush up on some simple safety tips.
How Parents Can Protect Children on Halloween
In the days and weeks before Halloween, parents are busy getting their children ready for parties, school events, and neighborhood activities. Amidst all the planning that goes into your child’s costume, be sure and make safety a top priority.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), children are more likely to be the victim of pedestrian accidents on Halloween than at any other time of the year. To protect them against injuries suffered in these and other types of accidents or mishaps, follow these safety tips:
- Make sure that all costumes, wigs, trick or treat bags, and other decorations are fire-resistant.
- Avoid elaborate masks, which can make it difficult for children to see.
- Adjust the length of their costumes to prevent slips and falls.
- Use reflective tape and have them carry a flashlight to make them more visible at night.
- Always make sure young children are accompanied by an adult and that older children stick together when trick or treating.
- Warn them against going to strangers home or talking to anyone they do not know.
While carving jack-o-lanterns may be a fun part of the night’s festivities, use caution and do not let smaller children use knives or other carving tools. Once your pumpkin is finished, use battery-operated lights inside it rather than a candle to reduce burn and fire risks.
The Part You Play in Reducing Halloween Injury Risks
Even if you do not have children who will be going out for trick or treating, you can still play a role in preventing accidental injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises neighbors and Halloween party hosts to follow these tips:
- Make sure the area in front of your home is well lit.
- Make sure the sidewalk is kept clear of decorations or other potential hazards, like wiring, loose paving stones, or low hanging branches.
- Avoid giving out loose, unpackaged candy or homemade goods.
- Do not invite children you do not know well into your home.
- If you are hosting a party, warn guests to be alert for trick-or-treaters.
- Avoid overserving your guests alcohol.
- If you are out attending events, slow down in local neighborhoods or anywhere children will likely be congregating.
Contact Our San Jose Attorneys Today for Help
Despite taking precautions, accidents and injuries can still occur. If you or your child is a victim, get the Jachimowicz Law Group on your side. Reach out and call 408-550-1732 or contact our dedicated San Jose personal injury attorneys online and request a free consultation to discuss how we can help you today.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/index.htm
https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/autumn/halloween
