Health Tip: Choosing a Safe Halloween Costume

2009/10/30

(HealthDay News) - It's that time of year - when the stores are chock-full of skeletons, ghosts, zombies and other youthful disguises.

To help ensure a safe Halloween for children, parents are advised to follow these guidelines for choosing the right costumes:

• Make sure costumes fit properly and don't drag on the ground, posing a tripping hazard.
• Stick a few strips of reflective tape on all costumes, so they're easier to see in the dark. This tape is available at many hardware, sporting goods and bicycle stores.
• Ask your child to carry a flashlight, and to use it while walking in the dark.
• Don't allow your child to wear costume shoes (or a parent's shoes).
• Look for accessories that are soft, flexible and don't pose a danger to others.
• Opt for face makeup and paint, rather than a mask, which can restrict vision.

Copyright 2009 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.

Resources

Article - A Happy Halloween Means Safety First
Click here

Safe Halloween - Health Canada
Click here

To speak to a Registered Dietitian free of charge call, 1-877-510-510-2
Or visit EatRight Ontario
Click here

Pumpkins  - EatRight Ontario
Click here