October 30, 1998

Trick-or-treating is a fun time for everyone. However, it also can pose potential safety hazards. The MGH Pediatric Nursing staff offers parents the following tips for keeping Halloween trouble-free:

• Light colors or reflective tape should be used on costumes to ensure visibility.
• All costumes should be flame resistant.
• Hems (and tails) should be short enough to prevent tripping when climbing stairs.
• Rules should be set on how much candy can be eaten on Halloween night.
• Candy should only be eaten that has been individually wrapped and inspected by an adult.
• Small children should not be given hard or chewy candy as it poses a choking hazard.
• An adult should always accompany smaller children, best before dark.
• Only go to houses that are well-lit and welcoming.

For more safety tips, call Mary Lou Kelleher, MS, RN, at 4-5720.