UW Health Kids offers Halloween safety reminders

MADISON, Wis. – As Halloween celebrations get underway over the next few days, a UW Health Kids expert hopes this treasured childhood holiday stays safe for all kids.

It is a sad statistic that 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 Rishelle Eithun, pediatric injury prevention program manager, UW Health Kids.

“From fun decorations to costumes to trick-or-treating, kids love this time of year, but it can also be dangerous,” Eithun said. “We want to keep the scares to the haunted houses and out of the emergency department, so it is important for parents and families to plan ahead and 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, ensure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls

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