How to Have a Safe Halloween in 2020

The excitement of Halloween can sometimes distract adults and children from the fact that there are major safety hazards on this particular night. During Halloween, pedestrian accidents tend to increase, especially for children. The National Safety Council (NSC) says that the risk of children having a fatal pedestrian accident increases over two-fold on Halloween. However, there are even more worries for parents this year.

Staying Safe for Halloween in 2020

With the threat of COVID-19 still looming in Austin, trick or treating has become a risky prospect. Some individuals are trying to mitigate the risks by providing socially distanced treats. One Austin man has created a trick or treat cannon to deliver treats while another clever Austinite is devising a drone delivery system. However, most experts are recommending that parents avoid trick or treating this year.

Experts recommend decorating and dressing up in costumes instead. Here are a few guidelines and recommendations for a safe Halloween during coronavirus!

• Check with your city government and follow its recommendations for trick or treating.
• Have a stay-at-home party playing Halloween-themed games and movies. You can even prepare Halloween foods or create a spooky forest in the backyard.
• Have a Zoom party and costume contest for the kids.
• Organize with neighbors to do fun activities from your doorsteps or front porches. You could even start a socially distanced costume parade in your neighborhood.
• Trick-or-treat at houses with friends and family you already have contact with regularly.
• Swords, knives, hammers and any other costume accessories should be short, flexible and soft.
• Always test costume makeup in small areas before applying all over. Remove it before going to sleep to prevent skin irritation.
• Lower the risk for eye injury and irritation by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
• Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Wear well-fitting masks, shoes and costumes to prevent trips and falls.
• Never walk near candles or other luminaries.

If you still wish to take your kids out trick-or-treating this year, remember these tips:

• Stay socially distanced while you are out. Maintain a space of six feet around your party.
• Try to pick brightly colored costumes. If your child’s costume does not have bright colors, the NSC recommends placing reflective tape on the costumes.
• Purchase or make costumes from flame-resistant materials.
• Tell your children not to eat their candy until an adult has inspected it for any evidence of tampering.
• Eat only factory-wrapped treats, rather than homemade treats from strangers.
• Hold a flashlight while out trick or treating to stay visible.
• Look both ways before crossing each street. Cross using crosswalks when possible.
• Only walk on sidewalks when possible.
• The NSC recommends that parents teach their kids to look, listen and be aware of cars not stopping at intersections.
• Sanitize all candy collected from outside your home, or let it sit for 72 hours before eating.

Our Austin Personal Injury Attorney Is Here to Help!

While these festivities are going on, The Law Offices of Aaron Allison wants to remind everyone to be mindful of their safety. And if the negligence of others hurts your family, do not hesitate to reach out to our law firm for help.