Careful thought and planning may go into a child’s Halloween costume, but the excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful on the streets.
Both children and adults need to give real attention to safety on this annual day of make-believe. And with a little extra thought and planning, we can make sure that all children have fun and safe outings on Halloween.
Only fire-retardant materials should be used for costumes.
Costumes should be loose, so warm clothes can be worn underneath.
Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard. (Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween.)
Outfits should be made with light-colored materials. Strips of reflective tape should be used to make children even more visible.
For youngsters under the age of 12, attach their names, addresses and telephone numbers (including their area code) to their clothes where it will be easily visible.
Masks can obstruct a child’s vision. Facial makeup is safer and more colorful.
When buying special Halloween makeup, check for packages containing ingredients that are labeled “Made with U.S. Approved Color Additives,” “Laboratory Tested,” “Meets Federal Standards for Cosmetics,” or “Non-Toxic.” Follow instruction for application.
If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eye holes.
Knives, swords and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects.
Bags or sacks carried by youngsters should be light-colored or trimmed with retroreflective tape if trick-or-treaters are allowed out after dark.
Carrying flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly.
On the way
Children should understand and follow these rules:
• Do not enter homes or apartments without adult supervision.
• Walk from house to house. Do not run. Do not cross yards and lawns where unseen objects or the uneven terrain can present tripping hazards.
• Walk on sidewalks, not in the street.
• Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic, if there are no sidewalks
Motorists should be especially alert on Halloween and know the following driving tips:
• Watch for children darting out from between parked cars.
• Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
• If you are driving children, be sure they exit on the curb side, away from traffic.
• Do not wear your mask while driving.
• At twilight or later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
4-H Open House
Make plans now to attend 4-H Open House on Friday, Nov. 7. Open House is a prime opportunity to explore 4-H in general and check out more information concerning specific projects and clubs that will be represented. If you are interested in learning more about 4-H then this is the place to be. There will be goodies for new members enrolling as well as 4-H merchandise for sale for all members and adults. So again, join us down at the fairgrounds from 4-6 p.m. for a great time.
Check out our Web page at www.archuleta.colostate.edu for calendar events and information.