This Halloween, ghosts and K-Pop Demon Hunters alike will be appearing on doorsteps across town. It’s important to remember that while the costumes, candy, and fun are all part of the magic, safety should be too. Here’s how to keep your family safe and smiling this spooky season. Let’s make safety part of the fun!
1. Costume Safety
- Visibility Matters
Add reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes and treat bags to help kids stay visible in the dark. - Choose Flame-Resistant Materials
Look for labels that say “flame resistant” on costumes, wigs, and accessories to reduce fire risk. - Makeup Tips
Read labels to ensure you’ve chosen non-toxic face/body paint that’s safe for skin.
2. Trick-or-Treat Precautions
- Practice Saying “Trick or Treat”
For toddlers or shy kids, a quick rehearsal at home can help them feel more confident approaching doors and speaking up. It also reinforces polite behavior like saying “thank you” after receiving treats. - Choose Safe Walking Routes
Stick to well-lit neighborhoods with sidewalks and streetlights, and always cross streets at crosswalks. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing and follow traffic signals. - Tag Your Trick-or-Treater
For little ones, consider attaching a Bluetooth tracker like an AirTag or Tile to their treat bag or costume. It’s a discreet way to keep tabs on their location in case you get separated in a crowd.
3. Health and Hygiene Tips
- Temper the Sugar Rush
Encourage kids to enjoy candy in moderation and save some for later to avoid tummy aches and sugar crashes. - Allergy Awareness
Be mindful of food allergies. Look for homes participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project, which offer non-food or allergy-safe treats. - Cold Weather Prep
Layer costumes if it’s chilly and bring jackets or gloves to stay warm while walking.
4. Safety for Teens
- Stay Connected
If you’re a teen heading out with friends, keep your phone charged and check in with a parent or guardian throughout the night. Group chats or location-sharing apps can help everyone stay safe and in touch. - Drive with Caution
Watch for excited kids darting across streets and drive slowly in residential areas. - Walk Carefully talk with kids about the risks of Distracted Walking. This includes text messaging, talking on or looking at their cell phone and listening to music.
5. Safe Celebrating at Home
- Pumpkin Carving Safety
Let kids draw the design, but leave the carving to adults to avoid injuries. - Supervise the Door
Station an adult nearby when kids are greeting trick-or-treaters to prevent wandering or opening the door alone. - Decorate Smart
Use battery-operated candles instead of real flames in jack-o’-lanterns to reduce fire risk.
Keep the Magic, Skip the Mishaps
Halloween is all about making memories, sharing laughs, and enjoying a little spooky fun. With these safety tips in mind, your family can focus on the treats and not the tricks. From all of us at JCMG, have a safe, happy, and magical Halloween!
And when your child needs care, whether it’s a sniffle, a sprain, or just a check-in, JCMG Pediatrics is here with expert providers, same-day appointments, and a welcoming environment that puts kids and parents at ease.
Learn more about our pediatric team and services at JCMG Pediatrics
or call ahead to schedule a same-day appointment: (573) 556-7704.
By: Mariah Allen