Halloween Experts

Children are four times as likely to be injured on Halloween than on any other night of the year. Most concerned parents have developed their own Halloween safety checklists. Based on the recommendations of the National Safety Council, the American Academy of Pediatrics, The Center for Disease Control, and the Los Angeles Fire Department, we propose the following guidelines in preparation for the holiday:

Things to do BEFORE HALLOWEEN:

1. Prepare home for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks and by placing jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.

2. Place lighted pumpkins away from curtains and other flammable objects, and do not leave lighted pumpkins unattended.

3. Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

4. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

5. Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.

6. Review with your children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll”, should their clothes catch on fire.

7. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

8. This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.

9. Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords with costumes. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

10. Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.