With Halloween quickly approaching, Health Canada reminds people to choose costumes, decorations, and accessories carefully.
As this year’s Halloween will be on a Thursday, there are some safety reminders by Health Canada gives to prevent incidents.
They warn to ensure to choose the right costume by avoiding those that are too big or have long pieces such as capes, skirts, and wings that children can trip over, or that can catch fire. Children should wear brightly coloured costumes that can be seen by motorists and accessories made of soft or flexible material.
If the children are wearing a mask, parents and guardians must make sure it allows them to see and breathe properly.
Health Cananda warns to avoid danger when decorating and to keep lighted candles away from flammable objects such as curtains and to not leave them unattended. Health Canada also recommends using a small flashlight or battery candle to light jack-o-lanterns.
As well, make sure decorative lights are certified by a recognized organization such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the Underwriters’ Laboratory of Canada (ULC). Check that there is no broken sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections.
Health Canada warns to ensure to secure compartments of products that contain button batteries. They can be found in some in children’s light-up costumes, jewellery, and shoes or in flashing decorations and flameless candles. If a child swallows a button battery, it can result in significant injury or death.
They also remind parents and guardians to always examine treats and toys given before children can have them. Do not let children under three years of age play with small parts.
Ensure costumes, decorations and accessories are not recalled by consulting Health Canada recall and safety alerts. For more tips, check out Health Canada’s Halloween Safety page.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) warn drivers to be on the lookout and to remain focused on the road and sidewalks ahead for kids during Halloween as they may be distracted.
Parents and guardians are asked to have the kids wear makeup instead of a mask, if possible. If only a mask will do, ensure their eyes and mouths are not covered for their safety. If parents and guardians are shuttling kids between neighbourhoods, ensure everyone buckles-up. Younger children should be supervised, even in a group.
Kids’ priorities are to have fun. To ensure that, never trick or treat alone, go in a group or with an adult. If trick or treating with friends, they must tell their parents and guardians their route and when they will return home. Carry a flashlight and wear reflective clothing or accessories. Use sidewalks or the edge of the roadway. Never crisscross the street, instead cross at crosswalks or intersections, where possible and to stay in neighbourhoods that you know. Walk, don’t run, to houses that are lit up for Halloween and never go inside a house to get your treat. Finally, don’t snack on treats until they are inspected by an adult.
OPP officers will be out in their usual costumes, working to ensure everyone has a safe and happy Halloween.
