STHS Children’s shares Halloween safety tips for RGV parents

Mega Doctor News

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As Halloween approaches, children in the Rio Grande Valley are eagerly preparing for a night of costumes, treats and neighborhood walks. However, although October 31st is usually a high point of the year, it can pose serious risks, with pedestrian accidents and allergic reactions becoming more common. To make Halloween both enjoyable and safe, South Texas Health System (STHS) Children’s is offering valuable tips for parents and caregivers this season.

Why safety is important on Halloween

Statistics from the Children’s Safety Network show that children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and fatally injured on Halloween, with the peak danger time occurring between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is also reporting an increase in Halloween-related emergency room visits, including for anaphylactic reactions to nut allergies. Given these risks, STHS Children’s helps parents prioritize safety alongside fun.

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Important Halloween safety tips for parents and caregivers

1. Set boundaries for trick-or-treaters
Small children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult. Parents should review and plan an approved route for older children and set a specific time for their return home.

2. Increase visibility
Children should carry glow sticks or flashlights to remain visible to drivers and others. Consider adding reflective tape or stickers to their costumes and bags, and have them wear light-colored clothing if possible.

3. Choose safe costumes
Make sure costumes fit properly to avoid tripping hazards, and make sure all toddler costumes meet federal safety standards. Avoid long, flowing costumes that can snag on objects or steps.

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4. Be safe
Encourage children to use sidewalks and pathways, walk (not run), and remain extra vigilant in residential areas.

5. Follow traffic rules
Teach your children to pay attention to traffic lights and look both ways before crossing the street.

6. Avoid distracted walking
Discuss with your children the dangers of distracted walking, including talking on the phone, listening to music, or talking on the phone while walking.

7. Only visit trustworthy homes
Instruct children never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle to retrieve treats. Stick to homes with porch lights on and well-lit walkways, and remind children to report suspicious behavior to authorities.

8. Examine sweets before eating
Always check your child’s candy stash before digging through it. Allow only factory-packaged treats and remove any items that look tampered with or pose a choking hazard to younger children.

Emergency assistance and resources

If you have a medical emergency, you can simply go to the nearest emergency room. STHS Children’s is home to the largest pediatric emergency room in the Rio Grande Valley and provides specialized care by pediatric-trained emergency personnel for a variety of medical issues. For more information, visit southtexashealthsystemchildrens.com.

By taking these simple precautions, parents and caregivers can help make Halloween safe, fun, and an unforgettable evening full of treats and laughter.

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