Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Ghosts, goblins and...germs? Tips for a safe Halloween this year
Staff
2 hrs ago
DENVER - It may just take a little bit of extra precaution to ensure that nothing more than tricks or treats are exchanged this Halloween. With the prevalence of H1N1 this year, the American Red Cross suggests a number of tips to keep the celebrations safe.
"We don't want anyone to go out trick-or-treating and come home sick," Chief Nurse of the American Red Cross Sharon Stanley said.
Trick-or-treating can involve plenty of hand digging in candy bowls, where germs can easily be exchanged. So the Red Cross recommends giving out individually-wrapped packages of treats, instead of the traditional bowl of candy.
Keeping hands away from the face can prevent the transmission of germs. But just in case, the Red Cross suggests keeping some hand sanitizer handy while making the neighborhood rounds.
Also if the kids are sick, staying at home may put a damper on the holiday, but can help prevent the spread of communicable disease.
Once back home after trick-or-treating, kids may be excited to start eating away at their candy stash. But, parents should help their children sort out their treats first. Peanut and food allergies are especially something to watch out for. Also, the Red Cross says it's best to throw away unwrapped candy or treats that appear tampered.
However, germs aren't the only things that may spook you on Halloween night.
Jack-o-lanterns are generally a staple near front doors. The Red Cross says using glow sticks instead of candles inside the hollow pumpkins can prevent fire danger. Children should also wear flame-resistant costumes.
Front porches can also pose other dangers. To keep safe, parents and children should only visit homes with a front light on, the Red Cross warns.
At your own house, clear the porch of obstacles that visitors may trip over.
Though this past week's snow storm along the Front Range has mostly wrapped up, ensure that paths to your front door are clear. If ignored, leftover snow, ice and leaves on sidewalks could prove disastrous.
It's best that younger children are accompanied by parents. But for the older ones who may venture in the neighborhood in their own groups, the Red Cross reminds that they should follow a planned route, and let parents know exactly where they're going.
Daylight Savings is coming to a close this weekend and the sun is expected to set fairly early. Carrying a flash light may be helpful once it's dark, advises the Red Cross. Wearing some reflective tape or light-colored clothing can help as well.
While masks are a part of many costumes, they may not be the best idea if they cover eyes or obstruct vision. The Red Cross recommends face makeup as an alternative.
Also, don't forget that Fido might become overwhelmed with all the excitement of the holiday. According to the Red Cross, it's recommended to keep pets restrained. When visiting others' homes, visitors should also be cautious around strange animals.
So don't get spooked on Saturday. By following the Red Cross' advice and taking a few additional precautions, it can ensure a safe and healthy Halloween for everyone.
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Staff
DENVER - It may just take a little bit of extra precaution to ensure that nothing more than tricks or treats are exchanged this Halloween. With the prevalence of H1N1 this year, the American Red Cross suggests a number of tips to keep the celebrations safe.
"We don't want anyone to go out trick-or-treating and come home sick," Chief Nurse of the American Red Cross Sharon Stanley said.
Trick-or-treating can involve plenty of hand digging in candy bowls, where germs can easily be exchanged. So the Red Cross recommends giving out individually-wrapped packages of treats, instead of the traditional bowl of candy.
Keeping hands away from the face can prevent the transmission of germs. But just in case, the Red Cross suggests keeping some hand sanitizer handy while making the neighborhood rounds.
Also if the kids are sick, staying at home may put a damper on the holiday, but can help prevent the spread of communicable disease.
Once back home after trick-or-treating, kids may be excited to start eating away at their candy stash. But, parents should help their children sort out their treats first. Peanut and food allergies are especially something to watch out for. Also, the Red Cross says it's best to throw away unwrapped candy or treats that appear tampered.
However, germs aren't the only things that may spook you on Halloween night.
Jack-o-lanterns are generally a staple near front doors. The Red Cross says using glow sticks instead of candles inside the hollow pumpkins can prevent fire danger. Children should also wear flame-resistant costumes.
Front porches can also pose other dangers. To keep safe, parents and children should only visit homes with a front light on, the Red Cross warns.
At your own house, clear the porch of obstacles that visitors may trip over.
Though this past week's snow storm along the Front Range has mostly wrapped up, ensure that paths to your front door are clear. If ignored, leftover snow, ice and leaves on sidewalks could prove disastrous.
It's best that younger children are accompanied by parents. But for the older ones who may venture in the neighborhood in their own groups, the Red Cross reminds that they should follow a planned route, and let parents know exactly where they're going.
Daylight Savings is coming to a close this weekend and the sun is expected to set fairly early. Carrying a flash light may be helpful once it's dark, advises the Red Cross. Wearing some reflective tape or light-colored clothing can help as well.
While masks are a part of many costumes, they may not be the best idea if they cover eyes or obstruct vision. The Red Cross recommends face makeup as an alternative.
Also, don't forget that Fido might become overwhelmed with all the excitement of the holiday. According to the Red Cross, it's recommended to keep pets restrained. When visiting others' homes, visitors should also be cautious around strange animals.
So don't get spooked on Saturday. By following the Red Cross' advice and taking a few additional precautions, it can ensure a safe and healthy Halloween for everyone.
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