GREEN BAY – Emplify Health by Bellin is reminding trick-or-treaters, parents and community members that a few simple tips can help keep Halloween safe for all who celebrate.

“Halloween is a great opportunity to celebrate community, have some spooky fun and enjoy a few extra treats along the way,” said Dr. Collin Ellenbecker, pediatrician at Emplify Health by Bellin De Pere East Clinic. “By heeding some basic advice and increasing one’s awareness, we can ensure it’s a night of safe celebration for young and old alike.” 

Costume considerations

Thoughtful planning is important to ensure kids’ costumes look good and keep them safe. Ellenbecker recommends:

• Always choose flame-resistant materials for costumes and wigs
• Add or carry reflective or illuminated elements (glowsticks/necklaces, flashlights, etc.) for nighttime activities
• Use make-up, glitter or skin-safe spray paint, rather than masks, to avoid obstructing vision
• Avoid long costumes kids can trip on, as well as carrying sharp objects

Pedestrian and personal safety protocol

Keeping trick-or-treaters safe is a team effort, with kids, caregivers and community getting in on the act.

“According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween,” Ellenbecker said. “Wearing reflective or illuminated clothing or accessories is important when it’s dark, and pedestrians at all times should stick to sidewalks and crosswalks, obey traffic signals and maintain awareness. Drivers should slow down, be hyperaware and ensure they are on the lookout for kids. And of course, never, ever drive impaired.”

What’s more, Ellenbecker recommends trick-or-treaters stick to familiar homes and neighborhoods and establish a route and timeframe plan for older kids heading out without adults.

Kids should be reminded never to enter a stranger’s home or car.

Care with candy   

Parents inspecting their kids’ Halloween candy remains an important practice, Ellenbecker said, and they shouldn’t hesitate to toss anything that is open, unwrapped (even partially) or suspicious.

He also recommends checking for allergens and anything that may pose a choking hazard for young kids.

Finally, while some extra indulgence is expected on Halloween, too much candy — even if it’s safe — can cause an upset stomach or vomiting. Parents are reminded to help their kids set helpful boundaries so they can enjoy the holiday without overindulging.

Tackling the time change

As a final note, Ellenbecker reminds parents and caregivers that Daylight Savings Time ends at 2 a.m. Nov. 1. This means an extra hour of sleep for Halloween revelers, but it can also lead to mood changes and other mental health effects as sunset comes sooner and daylight hours continue to wane.

“Getting active outdoors, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and using light therapy that mimics natural sunlight can all help us adjust during the darkest time of the year,” Ellenbecker said. “But if you feel like it’s not enough, and you’re experiencing significant or prolonged changes in mood, talk to your healthcare provider.”