As we head into the colder months we’ve got lots to look forward to - there’s Halloween and trick or treating then of course fireworks and Bonfire night. These are nights to cherish and make memories with your little ones however they can also bring with them a few risks. 
 
What do we need to watch out for and how do we keep our children safe? 
HALLOWEEN TIME! 
 
Road Accidents: 
 
Did you know that children are four more times as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other day? Now that is scary! 
 
It may seem obvious but always make sure that children are walking on the pavement and walk facing traffic. Stick to well lit streets when trick or treating and make sure to use torches when heading out after dark. Better yet incorporate glow sticks or reflective tape as part of their costumes! 
 
Fancy Dress: 
 
Make sure that trick or treating outfits are not too long or too big to avoid any risks from falls. Children should be able to move freely and walk comfortably in their outfits. Equally watch out for any drawstrings or scarves etc that may pose a strangulation hazard. 
 
A lot of Halloween outfits can be mass manufactured and cheap so therefore more likely to be flammable. Cheap costumes may not meet UK safety standards. Buy costumes from a reputable shop or website and keep them away from any open flames. 
 
If children are wearing a mask make sure they still have good visibility. If you’re using face paints or glitter make sure they have been designed for delicate skin. Don’t buy the cheap ones if you want to avoid any skin reactions! 
 
Trick or Treating: 
 
ensure that younger children avoid boiled sweets or marshmallows as these can be choking hazards. Don’t accept sweets thats have been opened and be extra vigilant of course if your child has a nut allergy. Final tip - don’t let them eat them all at once! 
 
Pumpkin Carving: 
 
Injuries from pumpkin carving on Halloween are very common. Children will naturally want to help make some wonderfully creative pumpkins but leave the actual carving to the adults and encourage children to scoop out the seeds with a spoon. You can even avoid carving all together - there are plenty of ‘no-carve’ decorating ideas all over Pinterest. 
BONFIRE NIGHT 
 
Official Displays: 
 
Go to an organised display. Accidents are more likely to happen at home if using and letting off fireworks yourself. Attending an official display means that strict health and safety standards will be followed by professionals - ultimately keeping the whole family safe. 
 
Supervision: 
 
This may be incredibly obvious but children need to be constantly under supervision. It only takes a split second for an accident to happen especially with younger children. Little ones are not aware of the consequences of danger around bonfires or fireworks - they have no fear! Make sure that they do not wonder off and if possible are wearing some form of reflective clothing in the dark. 
Bonfires: 
 
Do not let children throw items into the bonfire. This can be dangerous and cause sparks to fly back or worse still explode. The same goes for poking bonfires with sticks. Do not leave bonfires unattended and of course always make sure that there is a sensible safety cordon. 
 
Sparklers: 
 
This is the big one - we all remember the safety campaign adverts from our youth! Did you know that a sparkler can produce the same heat as a blowtorch? If you are going to let your child have sparklers then always use outside. Make sure they are kept at arms length and away from faces, clothing and hair. Places sparklers in a bucket of sand or water after use to cool down. 
 
Overall our advice is to avoid sparklers altogether as they are just so risky and certainly for children under five. 
 
Fireworks: 
 
Teach your children that although fireworks are exciting they can also be very dangerous and hurt you. They are not toys and children need to follow the rules set by their grown-ups. 
 
It goes without saying always read any instructions on the packaging before use and buy fireworks that have the CE safety mark. Light fireworks with a long safety lighter at arms length and then stand well back. Never return to a lit firework - if it doesn’t go off properly soak it with water and dispose of it. Consider ear protection for younger children so to avoid any damage to hearing or them being unnecessarily frightened by loud bangs. 
 
Being aware of the risks associated with these events and following these simple tips should mean that you have a fantastic time with your children this Halloween and Bonfire Night. Enjoy! 
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