Halloween Costume Safety Tips From Michael T. Gibson, P.A.

Halloween is fast approaching and picking out costumes is a big part of the fun! Proper costume selection for your child can make all the difference when it comes to having a fun and safe Halloween. Remember these basic safety tips when choosing or making your child’s Halloween costume this year.

• Proper fit: When it comes to choosing a Halloween costume for your child, one of the most important rules is that it is not too big or too loose on them. A costume that is too long can cause your child to trip and fall. Flowing or baggy costumes can easily snag on objects and people or worse catch on fire.
• Avoid loose fitting items. Costumes, masks and shoes should fit snug to avoid a trip-and-fall and vision impediments.
• Choose flame-resistant materials: Confirm that your child’s costume is “flame-resistant.” Parents should look for costumes made from synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester. These materials are less likely to ignite and will extinguish more quickly if they do catch on fire. Never walk near lit candles or jack-o-lanterns that can catch costumes on fire. Make sure your child’s costume is flame-resistant.
• Avoid the neck area. Do not let your child put anything around his or her neck that could pose a strangulation hazard. This can include capes, sashes, jewelry or any other costume accessory that could get tangled around your child’s neck.
• Use masks with caution. If your child’s costume comes with a mask, make sure this is only worn in photos and not when trick-or-treating. Masks can obstruct a child’s vision and can pose a safety hazard, particularly at night. When choosing masks, make sure it fits snug on your child’s face, has large holes around the eyes and they can breathe comfortably while wearing it. Costume masks should not interfere with vision.
• Read face paint labels carefully. A great alternative to masks is face paint. But make sure it is labeled, “FDA approved” and meant to use on the skin. Also, “non-toxic” does not mean it’s safe for use on the face, particularly if your child has sensitive skin.
• ALWAYS test make-up and face paint on a small area of skin, first. Wash it off thoroughly when the night is over to prevent a skin infection and eye irritation.
• Avoid potentially dangerous costume accessories. Swords, knives and princess wands should be soft and flexible with no sharp edges. Ask yourself, “Would my child be hurt if they accidentally fell on this?” Costume accessories, including plastic swords, knives, etc. should be kept short, soft and flexible.
• Avoid costumes with elaborate props- especially weapons or wands. These make for great photo ops at home, but children should leave them behind when going trick-or-treating.
• Safe footwear. Keep in mind, the footwear that comes with many of the costumes out there is not meant for outdoor use. The cheap, plastic footwear can cause your child to trip and fall. Make sure your child’s footwear fits properly and has plenty of traction.
• Stay visible. Many costumes are dark colored, making it difficult for motorists to see your child at night. Tape or sew reflective material on your child’s costume for added visibility. Also, make sure your child has a flash light to carry while trick-or-treating and your child has a bright-colored costume and is wearing reflective tape to be more visible to drivers.

Halloween Safety Starts With Smart Costume Selection

At the law firm of Michael T. Gibson, we want you and your family to have a safe and happy Halloween. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Our team of experienced Orlando personal injury attorneys can help you obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Please feel free to fill out our quick contact form on our website or call us today to set up a free consultation to discuss your case.