Happy Halloween

     It's that time of the year.  It is starting to cool down, the darkness is coming sooner and lasting longer due to daylight-saving time, mosquitos and crickets are gone and goons and goblins are coming out.  Okay, maybe not so many goons and goblins, but definitely more entertainment characters and super heroes.  Yes, it's Halloween.  I just wanted to stop by to remind some and inform others that we must be careful during this holiday. 


     The #1 cause of injuries according to the National Safety Council (NSC) on Halloween night is falls from tripping on those costumes that are too long, unseen objects, steps and curbs.  Sadly, the Center for Disease Control states that four times more children are killed in pedestrian/automobile accidents on the Halloween night than any other night of the year.  Children need to be escorted and watched.  Some information suggests that the younger children should do their trick or treating before dark.


     Another injury that tends to happen around this time of year includes cuts and burns usually in reference to pumpkin carving and lighting.  Children, sometimes are given free reign to carve their pumpkins without guidance from an adult.  They can, just like an adult, easily cause major injuries to their tendons or nerves that could require physical therapy after the injury is healed.  Let the little ones draw on the pumpkin instead.  Adults, keep hands and fingers out of the way when pumpkin carving.  Cut AWAY from yourself and keep your fingers out of the way.  Use utensils that are specific for pumpkin carving.  To avoid possible burns, when it comes to having a light inside of the pumpkin, use battery operated candles.  They will give you the same effect as a lighted candle.


     When choosing costumes make sure that your costumes are labeled as "flame resistant", light colored (if possible), and trimmed with reflective tape if the costume does not readily come with a reflective striping.  Also trim treat bags with reflective tape.


     In the height of my trick or treat days, my parents ALWAYS said, "don't eat anything until you come home and we can check it out".  They were of course referring to our treats. If it wasn't wrapped, we were not allowed to eat it. That should still be the case today.  Just like back then everything should be inspected.  We also were not allowed to eat fresh fruit.  Why?   Because it was too easily tampered with.   


     Ultimately, face paint that is labeled "nontoxic" would be best to use on the face because masks tend to have the eye holes at an odd placement so vision can be reduced and the holes for the mouth and nose at an odd placement may cause improper ventilation.  When using masks on your little ones, let them try them on and so you can make necessary adjustments so they can see and breathe.


     Any child under 12 should be accompanied by an adult.  The adult should be their eyes and ears as the kiddies are only looking out for the goodies.  Make sure you know where your older children are planning to visit and when they plan to come home.  Teach ALL your children to never enter a stranger's home or car.


     As drivers of vehicles, WATCH for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.  Be careful when entering and exiting driveways and alleys, and watch for those walking with dark clothing. 


     Halloween is a fun time for many--kids and adults.  In my house, someone who remains unnamed is still eating candy from last year.  Trick or Treat safely and HAVE FUN!!!
SMOOCHES