Since our scrubs see their fair share of hospitals and doctor’s offices, we wanted to make sure you and your family stay safe on the upcoming Trick or Treat trail.  Here is a list we compiled from several sources of basic ways to prevent accidents when energy and excitement levels get batty!

  Visible Vampires:  Trick or treating while it’s still light out is a safe bet for young kids.  If this isn’t an option, here are some easy solutions to illuminate your clan:

• Glow sticks and jewelry (cheap and can make a costume stand out!)
• Strips of reflective tape on costumes or bags (found in sporting goods and hardware stores)
• Small flashlights can help navigate winding driveways and porches where pumpkin luminaries may not be enough

   Stranger Danger: Make sure that those goblins under 12 are accompanied by an adult; those a little older should travel in a big group and have a way of contacting an adult if need be. 

   Treats Not Trips: When candy craze is in full swing it’s easy for kids to forget the rules they already know, so keep them on their feet by:

• Walking, not running from house to house
• Using  crosswalks and sidewalks whenever possible
• Watching out for cars that may be backing up or turning neighborhood corners
• Making sure their costumes don’t drag to prevent falling or getting too close to lit candles
• Masks can make it hard for kids to see their surroundings,  try face paint instead (make sure to test in a small area to make sure they’re not allergic and remove before bedtime to prevent skin or eye irritation)

   Candy Caution: Check pumpkin pails for possible tampering or choking hazards before letting kids dig in–also make sure that any homemade treats are from a trusty source.

   Haunted Huddle: As your ghoulish group is getting ready, repeat some key reminders before sugar levels spike and distractions are everywhere.

…and lastly, HAVE FUN!  What safety tips do you and your family use to ward off the Halloween Hazards?