Did you know that there are approximately 3,500 Halloween related injuries reported annually between October and November? Incidents involve burns from jack-o’-lanterns, lacerations from pumpkin-carving, falls related to ill-fitting costumes, and injuries from collisions due to impaired vision.

The following are some ideas for consideration to eliminate hazards:

Decorations:

• Outside your home, use flameless candles or keep burning candles and jack-o’-lanterns away from landings and doorsteps or anywhere trick-or-treaters’ costumes could brush against the flame.
• Remove obstacles from lawns, steps, and porches for trick-or-treaters.
• When indoors, keep candles and jack-o’-lanterns away from curtains, decorations, and items that could ignite.

Costumes:

• When purchasing costumes, masks, beards, and wigs, look for flame-resistant fabrics, such as nylon or polyester; look for a “Flame Resistant” label. Flame-resistant fabrics will resist burning and extinguish quickly.
• Purchase costumes that are brightly colored and clearly visible to motorists.
• For greater visibility, decorate or trim costumes and treat bags with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car’s headlights.
• Children should carry flashlights to be able to see and be seen.
• To guard against trips and falls, costumes should not drag on the ground.
• Tie hats and scarves securely to prevent them from slipping over children’s eyes and obstructing vision.
• If your child wears a mask, make sure it fits securely, provides adequate ventilation, and has holes large enough to allow full vision.

Be wise, follow these tips to eliminate hazards and enjoy a safe and happy Halloween.