Mid-State Health shares list of Halloween safety tips for families

PLYMOUTH — With Halloween approaching, Mid-State Health is encouraging families to take a few simple precautions to help children enjoy a fun and safe holiday.

Mid-State Health recommends the following tips to help keep children safe this Halloween:

• Choose safe costumes: Ensure costumes fit properly to prevent tips and falls, and use reflective materials or glow sticks to help children stay visible after dark
• Practice street safety: Use sidewalks and crosswalks, carry flashlights, and remind children to look both ways before crossing the street
• Supervise trick-or-treating: Accompany young children and encourage older children to travel in groups with a planned route
• Check treats: Inspect all candy and treats before children eat them, and discard anything unwrapped or suspicious
• Prevent falls and burns: Keep walkways clear for trick-or-treaters and consider battery-operated lights instead of open flames in pumpkins

“Halloween is an exciting time for children, and a few simple safety steps can help families focus on the fun,” said Nettie Colella, pediatrician at Mid-State Health. ”Before children dig into their Halloween candy, parents should take a few minutes to check each treat for unwrapped or damaged packaging and be mindful of any food allergies. For younger children, it’s also important to avoid hard candies and other treats that may pose a choking risk.”

By following these simple precautions, families can help make Halloween a safe and enjoyable experience for children of all ages. Mid-State Health’s Same-Day Care will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Halloween for patients with unexpected, non-emergency health needs.

For more information, visit midstatehealth.org.