When it comes to Halloween safety, I recommend some easily observable ground rules for both the person giving the treat and those accepting them!
Along with the usual guidance on watching for cars and staying in a familiar neighborhood, having an adult with young children is a must. Costumes should be safe for walking and visibility, especially any masks or headgear that obstruct vision. Also, taping reflective strips to clothing is a good idea.
One important ground rule for safety should be assuring that children don't dive into treats until an adult has been able to check for safety. This is also a way to set some limits on how much is consumed at any one time.
Here are some other ideas for a safer Halloween:
For Trick-or-Treaters
- Adult chaperones as well as trick-or-treaters should have flashlights and wear light-colored clothing.
- All treats should be individually wrapped and sealed. Forget homemade treats or bowls of loose candy or popcorn unless it is part of an organized neighborhood party.
- An adult should inspect all treats to make sure packages are secure and appear safe.
- And don't forget to have some handwipes available since it is likely there will be some snacking along the way!
For Trick-or-Treatees
- Allergies can be an issue, especially peanut or nut allergies. If your treat has these ingredients, ask the adult with the child if it is safe before offering it. And have some nut- and peanut-free treats on hand.
- Non-food treats like stickers, pencils, erasers and wash-off tattoos are popular.
- Think about offering some thirst quenchers for the road like small bottles of Giant Eagle® water and 100% juice in individual serving boxes.
- Remember that treat bags tend to get overfilled, dragged and dropped. Avoid giving anything that might break, squash or leak under the pressure of a full sack.
Have a happy, fun and, above all, a safe Halloween!
Have a question for Judy about this article or need some other meal and snack solutions for children? Send her an e-mail at nutritionist@GiantEagle.com.
October 2009