Preparing for a Spooky and Safe Halloween

Halloween is the time of year where a person can let their inner child shine and their creative juices flow. From creating the most elaborate costume to seeing who gathered the largest pile of candy, it’s no surprise that nearly 175 million Americans will participate in Halloween festivities. However, with Halloween rapidly approaching, it’s important that those participating in trick-or-treat festivities take the necessary precautions to ensure everyone has a safe and spook-tacular Halloween without any ghoulish twists. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of Halloween-related injuries have been reported. Here are some tips to guarantee your Halloween is a scream for all the right reasons.

1. Jack-o-lantern safety
2. Keeping the “ow” out of “wow:” DIY safety
3. Navigate the neighborhood safely
4. Check for allergies and opened wrappers
5. Defend against the elements

Triangle eyes, pointy teeth and a wicked smile – what would Halloween be without some festive jack-o-lanterns? Providing a little illumination as well as a delicious pumpkin seed snack, carved pumpkins can turn any house into the most talked about stop on any trick-or-treater’s route. However, with carving-related injuries recognized as a common Halloween injury, it’s important to take the necessary precautions.

To begin, find a flat surface free of clutter to carve your pumpkin. Next, only use tools designed specifically for pumpkin carving instead of your typical kitchen or steak knife. While carving, make sure both your hands and your carving tools are dry while carving your design, as to avoid slips. Additionally, never put your hands or fingers inside the pumpkin while carving. Finally, take your time constructing your design. Rushed carving can result in cuts and unwanted details.

The more creative your costume idea, the harder it may be to find in stores. That’s when your inner do-it-yourself superstar kicks in. From sewing snakes on a wig to create the perfect Medusa, to hot gluing fabric together to create your super hero’s super cape, your costume possibilities are only limited by your imagination. When putting your costume together it’s important to keep safety in mind. For example, while working on any kind of DIY project, avoid any distractions that might interfere with your creative process, such as loud music or your favorite Halloween movie. Loss of focus could result in an accidental injury, such as a hot-glue burn or a needle poke. In addition, when using a sewing machine, don't sew across pins and be sure to keep fingers out of the needle’s path. Sewing together a doctor’s costume shouldn’t turn into a trip to the actual doctor’s office. Finally, if you’re using a hot glue gun to complete your project, never place your fingers in or around the nozzle. Use only glue sticks intended for your model of glue gun and be sure to unplug the gun after you’ve completed your project.

Before stepping out to partake in the evening’s festivities, be sure to designate a route that will not only maximize candy opportunities but will also provide a clear outline of where and how far you’ll be traveling. Identify sidewalks and watch out for things in your path including decorations uneven stones, or wet leaves to avoid tripping and slipping which could result in scratches, bruises, broken toes, sprained ankles, or sprained wrists.

Milk, eggs and dairy – oh my! Before stepping off for the evening, it’s important to stay cognizant of which candies you can-and-cannot eat. Check labels for ingredients such as dairy, nuts and any other item you may have an allergic reaction to. In addition, watch out for slightly opened wrappers possibly containing tainted treats. A rotten snack has the potential to spoil anyone’s evening.

With the fall season comes the changing of leaves, shorter days and cold temperatures. In preparing your holiday costume, be sure to check the weather days before the big night. It’s the not the end of the world if Superman has to hold an umbrella or if Tarzan has to cover up a little. Cold temperatures and the potential for rain can help to cause the onset of a cold or flu. According to the CDC, the average American gets a cold 2-3 times per year. Fend against symptoms like runny nose, sore throats and coughing by bundling up for the cold temperatures.

Should you happen to encounter any Halloween-related injuries, you can always visit your local urgent care center to get treatment for whatever the night brings.

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