http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/halloweens_7546.mp3
Halloween is supposed to be the scariest holiday of the year, but it can also be a dangerous one. KSMU’s Chasity Mayes tells us how taking a few simple precautions can lead to more treats than tricks.
October 31st will be a frightening day in the Ozarks, but ghosts, goblins, and vampires aren’t the safety issue. Parents are sometimes concerned when it comes to keeping kids safe on the haunting holiday, and with good reason. A nine-year study conducted by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons between 1997 and 2006 determined Halloween to be among the top three holidays that produce the most ER visits.
Joann Moore is a public information officer for the American Red Cross in Springfield. She says a few basic precautions will make your trick-or-treating experience less risky.
“[And] for younger children, have an adult accompany them. Just be cognizant of the type of clothing with your costume you know, if it is at a dark time, so that children are visible to people that are driving on the street,” says Moore.
Other tips for a safe trick-or-treating experience include:
1. Keep an eye out for fire hazards since many costumes are made from flammable materials. 2. Consider painting your child’s face instead of using vision restricting masks.
3. Wear sturdy shoes when walking from house to house, keep an eye out for pets that might pose a threat, and always carry a flashlight and cell phone incase of an emergency.
4. Also, drivers should take precautions by slowing down and watching for kids in the street, even before dark.
For KSMU News, I’m Chasity Mayes.