With fright night right around the corner, you’re probably busy preparing costumes, treats, and decorations for the big day. While Halloween can be a lot of fun, it’s also a busy night for your local emergency room. In fact, the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System lists Halloween as the holiday with the fifth highest number of ER visits for those 18 and under. There are real dangers lurking around this fun holiday, but with a bit of awareness your family can have a happy and fun night.
Dangerous Costumes
This is a night all about dressing up, but it’s important to help your child choose a costume that will be safe as well as fun.
Many costumes pose hazards for sprained ankles, or tripping and falling. Be sure your little one can see properly through their mask, or remove the mask between houses and only put it on just as they ring the bell. Be sure costumes fit properly, without dangling bits that may get wrapped around ankles or stepped on. And ensure your kids are wearing comfortable shoes, appropriate for a lot of walking or running.
Next up is eye injuries. From toy weapons to fairy princess wands, there are a lot of props to worry about. Foam options are a safer bet, but not always easily available. Instruct your kids to never wave anything near anyone’s face, and if their costume has parts that stick out at what might be eye-level for others, be sure they keep their distance.
Pumpkin Carving
For those who aren’t out knocking on doors, carving pumpkins is a common activity. There are even pumpkin carving parties where lots of people get together and see who can create the most amazing jack-o-lantern.
Of course, little ones should never be allowed to carve pumpkins on their own. For the youngest family members, consider painting a pumpkin instead. Even bigger kids (and adults) can be injured easily with sharp carving tools. Practice safety and keep a first aid kid nearby, just in case!
Street Safety
Excited children running around the neighborhood after dark can be a recipe for disaster. Remind your kids to practice safety: always look both ways before stepping into the street, don’t step out from between parked cars and younger children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult. If you’re out driving on Halloween, or have teens who are, slow down and be extra alert for little ones who may have forgotten safety rules in their quest for treats.
Danger After Dark
For those trick-or-treating after the sun goes down, or even in low light, there can be additional hazards. Have your kids wear glow sticks or carry flashlights so they can be easily seen by cars and others out for fun. Avoid areas that are not well lit, and stay on the sidewalk when possible to avoid the possibility of falling in a hole or tripping over yard debris.
Get Urgent Care Delivered
Despite the best of intentions and all the caution in the world, it’s still possible that your child will somehow get injured this Halloween. If this happens, don’t panic! Avoid the chaos of your local ER and get treatment delivered.
DispatchHealth’s trained emergency care providers will meet you at your home, or wherever is most comfortable. They can handle nearly everything an emergency room can, and they’ll spend the time to make sure you understand your child’s treatment and even update their pediatrician for you. It’s a quick, convenient, and cost-effective way to be treated for injuries, burns, and most other non-life-threatening urgent medical needs! If this is an emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
