I never thought about costume safety when I was a kid going trick-or-treating. I guess my parents did. I've never asked. But now I'm a parent and I DO have to think about it. For example, I had the kids try on their vampire costumes just to find out one was too small and the other was "TOO ITCHY!" So we had to get new costumes. Parenting win or fail? Not sure.
Some of the things on this list are obvious, but it doesn't help to be reminded.
- Purchase or make costumes that are bright, reflective and can be seen in low light conditions. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes.
- Most commercial costumes are flame resistant, check the label on your child's costume to ensure it's made of flame-retardant material.
- Make sure that if a costume has a prop like a knife or pitchfork that it's soft and flexible. This will ensure if the treat-or-treater falls or trips they will not be injured by sharp or hard edges.
- Test all face paint and costume make-up to make sure your child doesn't develop a rash or adverse skin reaction.
- Make sure your child's costume doesn't impede their ability to walk- shoes should fit properly and the length of the costume should allow your child to move freely.
- Be careful of sharp edges on masks and make sure it fits your child properly.
- Tell your child to remove their mask when walking from house to house for better vision.
- Don't allow trick-or-treaters to change their eye color with nonprescription cosmetic contact lenses. This may not only impede vision, but can result in an eye infection and/or damage to the eyes.
- Make yourself and your trick-or-treaters visible- use reflective treat bags; bring flashlights with new batteries; or use "glow sticks."
- Older children should wear a watch and carry a cell phone.
(ClickOnDetroit) Photo: Getty