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More on Ten Tricks to Making This Halloween a Treat: Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital Physician Offers Family Safety Tips
Ten Tricks to Making This Halloween a Treat: Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital Physician Offers Family Safety Tips
(Sep 30, 2008)
Halloween is approaching, and many parents may wonder if trick-or-treating is safe. Dr. Meridith Sonnett, director of pediatric emergency services at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, suggests that, with a few precautions, Halloween can be a happy and safe occasion for all. As one example, Dr. Sonnett recommends that trick-or-treating or collecting donations for organizations like UNICEF or the Red Cross be limited to familiar neighborhoods and neighbors. "It's important not to create too much fear in your children when you speak to them about Halloween safety," says Dr. Sonnett. "But it's also essential that they understand that precautions must be taken." The following are 10 tips that every parent should remember:
- Always go trick-or-treating with your children.
- Do not let your children eat candy until you've had a chance to examine it.
- Make sure they throw away any unwrapped foods.
- Make sure costumes are made of non-flammable material and are short enough so that your children don't trip.
- If your children are wearing masks, make sure the eye holes are the right size and in the right place so their vision is not blocked.
- If they are old enough to trick-or-treat by themselves, have them go in groups -- even if only on your block or in your building.
- If they are trick-or-treating at nighttime, make sure their costumes are bright in color, or have your children wear reflectors.
- If they are going on dark streets, have them take a flashlight. If they are going in apartment buildings, accompany them inside.
- Instruct your children on proper street crossing safety.
- Do not let them enter a stranger's home or apartment. Have them ask for the treats while waiting outside the door.
