Tips To Protect Your Trick-Or-Treaters Against Personal Injuries In Maryland On Halloween

Halloween is right around the corner, and little ghosts, ghouls, and goblins are excitedly getting ready. As a parent, you may have already helped them decide the type of costume they want and made plans for them to get candy or other treats. Before the big night comes, take time to review some basic safety precautions. Our Maryland personal injury attorneys offer tips to protect trick-or-treaters against accidents this Halloween season.

Maryland Halloween Safety Tips For Parents

Most people celebrate Halloween in some fashion, whether it involves themed costume parties, harvest festivals, haunted houses, and/or trick-or-treating. Whatever your plans, one of the highlights for children is going out at night dressed up as creepy ghouls, goblins, or other characters.

While this can be a lot of fun, the State of Maryland warns parents to make safety a top priority. Halloween is among the most dangerous nights of the year for children, and dressing in elaborate costumes only increases the risks. To protect them and reduce the chances of potentially serious injuries, follow these tips:

• When buying or creating a costume, make sure all materials used are flame retardant;
• Make sure their costume is not too long, which could present a trip hazard;
• Make-up is generally safer than masks, but use reputable products and do a skin test first;
• Help them select shoes that are comfortable and easy to walk in;
• Avoid swords, toy guns, or other items that could be either used or interpreted as a weapon.

Consider having dinner or at least a snack before taking children out trick-or-treating and require them to wait until they get home to eat any candy. Little ones should be accompanied by an adult. For older children, have them go out in groups, know what route they are taking, and have them check in periodically.

Halloween Car Accidents Involving Children: How To Reduce The Risks

The National Safety Council warns that pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common on Halloween, with children among the most likely victims. As the days get shorter, visibility is a concern. To keep your child safe, follow these precautions to increase their visibility:

• Pick costume colors that are light and bright;
• Use reflective tape on both costumes and your child’s candy bag;
• Incorporate a flashlight into your costume design or have them carry one;
• Make sure the area they are trick-or-treating in is well lit.

Make sure little ghosts and goblins hold your hand when walking through neighborhoods and emphasize the importance of always remaining on the sidewalk. For older children, remind them to use crosswalks at intersections, to look both ways before stepping into the street, and to never assume a driver sees them or will stop.

When Accidents Happen, Contact Our Maryland Personal Injury Attorneys For Help

Halloween can leave children suffering serious personal injuries. Berman, Sobin, Gross LLP provides the trusted, professional legal representation needed to get compensation. To find out how we can help you, contact our office. Request a consultation today with our experienced Maryland personal injury attorneys.

Sources:

news.maryland.gov/halloween-safety-tips/

nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/autumn-safety/halloween?srsltid=AfmBOorRT-dwzMZMGXbXNMxW5yKhJVoT8-NMVMO1Ur-dOsvqMJhDjm0f