October 26, 2022

UW Health Kids offers Halloween safety reminders

Madison, Wis. – From decorations to costumes to trick-or-treating, Halloween is a favorite holiday for many kids.

With most Halloween celebrations back to normal this year, a UW Health Kids expert wants to keep the scares in the haunted houses and out of the Emergency Department.

It is a sad fact but on average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year, according to Dr. Nicholas Kuehnel, pediatric emergency medicine physician, UW Health Kids.

“Kids love this time of year. It can be an important part of their childhood, but it can also be dangerous,” Kuehnel said. “With more people likely out celebrating than there have been the last few years, it is especially important for parents and families to think about safety.”

Tips for Halloween safety

From UW Health Kids and Safe Kids Worldwide

  • Drivers should slow down and be alert. Kids are excited on Halloween and may dart into the street.

  • Turn on headlights early in the day to spot kids from further away.

  • Trick-or-treaters should carry glow sticks or flashlights, use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and bags and wear light colors to help kids see and be seen by drivers.

  • Parents should join kids younger than age 12 for trick-or-treating.

  • Remind kids to cross the street at corners or crosswalks.

  • When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.

  • Use face paints instead of masks when possible. Masks can limit children’s vision.