Halloween is supposed to be spooky fun. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the busiest nights of the year for emergency departments — including University Health's. It’s easy to see why.
If you’ve driven on Halloween, you may have witnessed kids darting across streets to demand candy at the next available house. In some cases, their excitement can overcome any sense of caution when trick-or-treating.
“Halloween can be the deadliest night of the year for our children,” said Jennifer Northway, director of University Health's Injury Prevention Program. “Make sure they are safe.”
Halloween Costume Safety Tips
While costumes are the heart of Halloween excitement, they can also pose risks if not chosen carefully. Northway says costume safety is an important part of preventing injuries during this holiday.
Here’s what you can be on the lookout for when shopping for your child’s costume:
- Make sure the costume is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
- Avoid costume footwear such as clown shoes, slippers, high heels or decorative shoe covers.
- If using a costume sword, knife or other accessories, ensure they are short, soft and flexible.
- Do not use toy guns as part of a costume.
- Avoid costumes made with flimsy materials, big or baggy sleeves and billowing skirts.
Northway also recommends using non-toxic face makeup rather than a mask. Masks can make it difficult for your kids to see. If your kid wears a mask, make sure it fits and has eyeholes large enough to allow full vision.
Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips
University Health leads Safe Kids San Antonio, the local chapter of an international organization dedicated to keeping kids safe and injury free.
Safe Kids has a few tips for making sure that nothing spoils the fun this Halloween:
- Check that your child’s shoelaces are tied and that the costume doesn’t affect their ability to re-tie during trick-or-treating.
- Have kids use glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
- Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
- Children younger than 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, remind them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and to trick-or-treat in groups.
- Use crosswalks, stick to the sidewalks and be aware of cars turning or backing up. Stop and look before crossing driveways.
- Do not cross the street between parked cars, many children are not tall enough to be seen by passing drivers and could be hit by a car.
- If your child is wearing face paint or makeup, be sure to wash it off before bedtime.
Drive Safe on Halloween Night
Drivers should be cautious on Halloween night, especially when driving through residential areas. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe:
- Drive slowly in residential areas to allow time for any needed sudden stops.
- Watch for trick-or-treaters crossing mid-block where there may be fewer streetlights.
- Be especially watchful pulling into or backing out of a driveway.
- Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Drivers should be especially alert for kids during those hours.
- Put your phone down and stay alert.
- If you plan on drinking, have a designated driver to take you home.
Injury Prevention at University Health
You can learn more about Injury Prevention at University Health for kids and adults on our website. Find more holiday safety tips.
