5 Tips for a Safe Halloween
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ryan Padrez
Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics & Father of three
Stanford University School of Medicine
Halloween is once again just around the corner. With COVID still spreading and many children not yet eligible for vaccines, it will be important to help keep trick-or-treating safe again this year. With some common-sense Halloween safety steps, there are plenty of ways to have Halloween fun.
I am confident that you will find a creative way to celebrate Halloween with your family safely!
Wishing you all a fun, safe, and spooky Halloween.
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ryan Padrez
Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics & Father of three
Stanford University School of Medicine
Halloween is once again just around the corner. With COVID still spreading and many children not yet eligible for vaccines, it will be important to help keep trick-or-treating safe again this year. With some common-sense Halloween safety steps, there are plenty of ways to have Halloween fun.
Enjoy Halloween Outside
It is best to stay outdoors for trick-or-treating and other celebrations. The virus is much less likely to spread outside, so look for fun celebrations at outdoor venues. Instead of an indoor haunted house this year, perhaps you can find an outdoor corn maze?
Trick or Treat in Small Groups
Try to avoid large gatherings when trick-or-treating. Watch out for lots of kids clustering at doorsteps where goodies are being handed out.
Wear Face Masks
If you do elect to gather in groups or attend an indoor event, please be sure everyone is wearing a face mask. Mask wearing is still one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of transmission. Be creative, like incorporating the COVID face mask as part of your child’s costume.
Use Hand Sanitizer
Bring along hand sanitizer and use it frequently. Also, when children return home with their buckets of goodies, remind them to wash their hands before eating any treats.
Remember Halloween Safety Basics
Finally, with so much focus on COVID safety, it is important to remember other safety basics as well. For example, ensure that costumes can be seen well in the dark; consider adding reflective tape for greater visibility. Make sure costumes are short enough to prevent tripping. Also, avoid costumes that cover up eyes or inhibit vision. Stay on sidewalks and remind kids to be careful around cars as drivers may not see them. Lastly, review with children how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or get lost.
I am confident that you will find a creative way to celebrate Halloween with your family safely!
Wishing you all a fun, safe, and spooky Halloween.
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