Sangamon Sun

Halloween is a cherished tradition in the United States, with millions participating in festivities such as visiting haunted houses, carving pumpkins, and trick-or-treating. In 2024, Americans are expected to spend approximately $11.6 billion on Halloween-related goods, with over 70% planning to partake in celebrations.

However, the excitement of Halloween can also bring potential hazards. Emergency room visits tend to increase on October 31st due to injuries from pumpkin carving, falls during trick-or-treating, and allergic reactions. To ensure a safe holiday experience, several precautions are advised.

When selecting costumes, it is recommended that materials be flame-resistant and properly fitted to avoid tripping. Non-toxic makeup is suggested instead of masks that might obscure vision. Colored contact lenses should only be worn with a prescription. It is advised against allowing young children to carry sharp objects or long accessories like swords.

Adding a child's name, address, and a parent's phone number to their candy basket can be helpful if they become separated from their group. If children will be trick-or-treating without an adult, establishing a buddy system and planning routes are essential safety measures.

For decorations like jack-o-lanterns on porches, flameless light sources are encouraged over candle-lit options. Young children should not carve pumpkins themselves.

Checking treats for being unwrapped or expired and ensuring they do not contain allergens is crucial for safety.

Beyond these tips for avoiding injuries at home or while collecting candy, pedestrian safety remains a significant concern on Halloween night due to increased road traffic and impaired drivers.

To reduce pedestrian risks:

Trick-or-treat before dark in familiar neighborhoods.

Enhance visibility by using reflective tape on costumes or carrying glow sticks.

Stay on sidewalks when possible; otherwise walk facing traffic.

Use crosswalks exclusively for crossing streets after checking both directions.

Be cautious of vehicles reversing out of driveways.

Maintain supervision over young children and keep groups together.

These strategies aim to prevent accidents involving pedestrians during Halloween celebrations.