Heimlich Heroes Blog

BLOG Home

Oct 30, 2017

How to Keep Kids Safe This Halloween

Posted By Heimlich Heroes

Candy, costumes, and family fun...Halloween is right around the corner and Heimlich Heroes™ wants to keep your loved ones safe. Check out our guidelines to a healthy, happy Halloween experience.

A Choke-Free Halloween:

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, food causes more than 50 percent of choking episodes. Small pieces of candy, paired with kids running around and laughing, can lead to a choking incident.

Make sure you talk to your kids about the potential hazards. You can prevent a choking emergency with these simple tips:

• No running, laughing or goofing around while eating candy
• Take small bites and chew thoroughly
• Sit upright when eating
• Keep hard, round candies away from small children
• Cut large candies into smaller bites for small children
• Learn the Heimlich Maneuver®

Dress for Success:

The perfect costume is one that keeps your child visible. If the costume isn't bright and reflective, add reflective tape to make sure children can be seen by motorists. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, pedestrian-related injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween. Stay on well-lit sidewalks and never let your child cross a street without an adult.

Here are a few more quick costume checks to make before trick-or-treating:

• Check that masks, wigs, hats, and eyewear aren't blocking eyesight
• Make sure accessories like swords and sticks aren’t too sharp
• Fill flashlights with fresh batteries

Sugar, Sugar:

Before accompanying your kids on their spooky, fun adventure, serve a well-balanced meal for dinner to keep them from filling up on sugary treats. The American Heart Association recommends limiting children to less than six teaspoons of added sugar per day.

When it comes to candy...

• Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home
• Once home, examine for holes, missing wrappers, or anything suspicious
• Limit sugar intake by rationing candy to just a few pieces per day

Keep your family safe by reviewing these tips and guidelines with your children. You can have a safe, healthy and fun Halloween if you're prepared!

Happy Halloween, from Heimlich Heroes!