October 27, 2003 Say BOO To Dangerous Trick-or-TreatingHealth Department encourages Halloween safety

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Oct 27, 2003 -

Baton Rouge --- Amidst the excitement of eating oodles of goodies and watching ghosts and goblins go by, the Department of Health is encouraging everyone to remember some basic safety tips to keep Halloween safe and happy.

“Too often, people get caught up in holiday excitement and forget to take some basic precautions that could save a child’s life,” said Secretary David W. Hood. “We want everyone to enjoy their Halloween activities, so we are issuing some basic guidelines all parents should follow on this day.”

Some tips to follow for safe trick or treating include: 

Costumes

• Make sure the costume is short and snug. Baggy, loose clothing can cause children to trip and poses a greater risk if the child is exposed to fire. It also is important to avoid wearing oversized shoes (i.e. clown shoes), as those also can lead to dangerous falls. Make sure the eyeholes in a child’s mask are big enough so that he or she can see oncoming traffic and other pedestrians in the way.

• Make sure costumes props are flexible. Do not allow children to use props such as swords, knives or guns unless these items are made of rubber or plastic.

Streets

• Wear bright colors so that oncoming drivers can easily see the child in the dark. Glow-in-the dark stickers also can be added to dark costumes to make them more visible.

• Do not let children younger than 13 trick or treat without an adult. If older children are going out alone, make sure they are using a buddy system.

• Make sure children practice proper safety rules when crossing streets. They must look both ways before stepping into the street and should not step between parked cars.

Candy

• Do not allow your children to eat their trick-or-treat candy until you have examined it.

For more information on Halloween safety, please contact the injury prevention coordinator in your region (listed above).