Spooky Safety – Tips and Tricks for Staying Safe this Halloween

Halloween is a blast, but safety is key to making it a good time for everyone.

When carving pumpkins, use a pumpkin carving kit instead of sharp kitchen knives—research shows over 41% of Halloween injuries are from hand cuts, often during carving. For trick-or-treaters, being visible is critical, as pedestrians are twice as likely to be hit by cars on Halloween night than on other nights. Adding reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes and staying in well-lit areas can make a big difference. Also, drinking and driving is especially dangerous on Halloween; the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that nearly 40% of Halloween night fatal crashes involve drivers over the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit. Planning for a designated driver or using a ride service is a must to keep roads safe. By following these safety tips, you can help make Halloween a safer and more enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Quick Halloween Safety Tips

• Use Battery-Operated Candles: Opt for LED candles in pumpkins to prevent fire hazards, especially near costumes or flammable decorations.
• Plan a Trick-or-Treat Route: Stick to familiar, well-lit neighborhoods, and make a plan with friends or family to stay together.
• Limit Costume Masks: Use face paint instead of masks to keep your vision clear and reduce the risk of accidents.
• Stay Allergy-Aware: Check labels carefully if you have allergies, look for allergy-safe treats, and carry an EpiPen if needed.
• Inspect Candy Before Eating: Look for any signs of tampering, like open wrappers or strange packaging, and throw away anything suspicious.

Did You Know?
A blue trick-or-treat bucket often shows that the child carrying it has autism. This helps others understand that the child may interact or communicate differently. The blue bucket can be a simple way to spread awareness, creating a more inclusive Halloween for kids with autism.