While it’s important to make sure your child has a happy Halloween, it’s even more important to make sure they have a safe Halloween. Even if you trust your neighbours, it’s always worth checking for risks. These simple tricks (and treats) are crucial to know before the spookiest day of the year.
Give your child advice
It’s worth talking to your child before letting them venture out into the scary suburbs. There’s no need to unnecessarily spook them, so make sure you’re casual in your approach.
Some good points to address are:
- Don’t eat anything until you’re home.
- Don’t take anything that isn’t properly wrapped.
- A simple, set out trick or treating route.
- An emergency plan in case something goes wrong.
- Don’t eat the candy too fast!
It’s important to make sure you give your child a light meal or snack before they head out, so they don’t become hungry whilst on the hunt for sugar.
Check the candy
As rare as it is, the home doctor experts at House Call Doctor say it’s worth checking sweets for any sign of tampering when the child gets back home. After all, poor safety habits are scarier than any monster costume out there. Experts say foodborne illnesses send approximately 128, 000 people to the hospital each year.
When they get home, closely examine every piece of your child’s candy for any unusual appearance or discoloration, or tiny pinholes or tears in wrappers. It’s also good to be weary of any cookies, brownies or baked goods from people you don’t know. Always check the expiration date.
It goes without saying any unwrapped or homemade items should be discarded instantly, unless you personally know the giver. When in doubt, throw it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
If you find something hazardous in the candy, immediately report it to the police.
