Keeping kids safe this Halloween is a focus for the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare. Every year, the department reminds parents of the best ways to ensure a safe and happy Halloween.
After the first truly post-pandemic year, public health officials are still reminding residents of the best ways to avoid spreading infections and illnesses. If your child is sick or feel symptoms, the Health Dept. urges parents to keep them at home, skip parties and going door to door.
Keeping hands clean, especially when kids are out trick-or-treating and bringing along hand sanitizer will also help prevent the spread of germs.
One of the major dangers of Halloween is falls and pedestrian car accidents. Both children and parents should keep that mind and pay careful attention to children darting in and out from between parked cars. Drivers should also use caution when entering and exiting driveways and alleys, and once the sun goes down, watch for children in dark clothing.
Supervision of young children is important and the Health Dept. offers advice for ensuring children are supervised. Adult supervision or an older sibling accompanying children under the age of 12 is recommended. Parents should caution children to travel in familiar areas along established routes. Kids should be advised to only stop at well-lit houses and to never enter a stranger’s home.
Setting a return time is also advised and children should not eat any candy until parents have the chance to inspect it.
Costume safety tips include making sure that the costume isn’t too long as to be a trip hazard. Costumes should be loose enough so that warm clothes can be worn underneath, advises the Health Dept., and parents should consider using make up instead of masks, which could block children’s vision.
For more information on Halloween safety, visit the HSCHD website at www.henrystarkhealth.com for follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
