Halloween safety tips from Methodist Hospital Westover Hills

As Halloween approaches, excitement fills the air for kids, parents, and even pets. Methodist Hospital Westover Hills is committed to ensuring this spooky season remains fun and safe for everyone. Corryn King, Emergency Department Director, offers critical tips to help families navigate Halloween safely, particularly regarding children, candy, and pets.

Trick-or-treating safety for kids

Children are eager to collect candy, but it’s important to keep safety in mind. The National Safety Council shared the following recommendations for parents and guardians:

Supervision and street safety: The National Safety Council (NSC) advises that children should always trick-or-treat with adult supervision, and they emphasize the importance of reflective materials and crosswalk usage to prevent pedestrian injuries. (Source: National Safety Council, Halloween Safety Tips)

Costume safety: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests parents ensure costumes are flame-resistant and fit properly to avoid trips and falls. They also recommend adding reflective elements to costumes to improve visibility. (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, Halloween Safety)

Candy inspection and choking hazards: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) encourages parents to inspect Halloween candy for signs of tampering and to be mindful of potential choking hazards, especially for young children. (Source: U.S. FDA, Halloween Food Safety Tips)

"We see a rise in pedestrian-related injuries during Halloween," commented King. "Drivers need to be especially vigilant in neighborhoods, and parents should remind children to stay cautious when crossing streets."

Candy safety

The thrill of collecting Halloween candy is a highlight for many, but safety doesn’t stop after trick-or-treating:

Inspect before eating: Always check candy for signs of tampering, such as unusual wrappers, punctures, or unfamiliar brands. Discard any homemade treats unless you know the source personally. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also warns parents to inspect candy to avoid hazards, including tampered packaging and unsafe ingredients.

Choking hazards: Small candies and toys from treat bags can pose a choking risk to young children. Choose age-appropriate treats and monitor young children as they enjoy their Halloween.

"We urge parents to be extra cautious about candy safety," Kings advises. "Taking just a few minutes to inspect treats can prevent a potential emergency."

Pet safety

Halloween is not just fun for humans; many pets celebrate the action. However, the holiday also presents hazards for animals:

Keep pets indoors: The doorbell’s constant ringing and strange costumes can stress pets. To prevent escapes or overexcitement, keep them in a quiet room away from the commotion.

Avoid dangerous treats: Chocolate, candy with artificial sweeteners like xylitol, and candy wrapped in specific wrappers can be toxic to pets. Be sure to store candy out of their reach.

Costumes for pets: While dressing up pets can be adorable, make sure their costumes are comfortable and don’t restrict movement or breathing.

Corryn King concluded, "We love seeing families include their pets in the Halloween fun, but it's crucial to remember that some aspects of the holiday can be stressful or even dangerous for them.”

Halloween should be a time of fun, not a trip to the emergency room. Families can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all by taking simple precautions. Methodist Hospital Westover Hills remains dedicated to the health and safety of our community during this festive season.

In an emergency on Halloween, please call 911 or visit your local Emergency Room. Your safety and that of your family is our priority.