NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO – Oct. 31 is fast approaching, and many children will dress up to knock on doors asking for treats and Health Canada would like to remind parents and the community about practicing safety over the holiday.
When most people think of Halloween safety, they think about making sure that their children’s candy is safe after the trick-or-treating is done, but Health Canada says that safety should be considered before, and during the excitement as well.
One thing that Andrea Marini, consumer product safety officer with Health Canada would like people to consider is choosing the right costume including costumes and accessories that are less likely to catch on fire, that are bright and easily visible to motorists, that fit well and can be worn over warm clothing, and that are not subject to a recall.
“When we think of costumes, we should be mindful of a well fitted costume; oversized costumes can pose as a tripping hazard. Baggy sleeves, capes, and even tails, those can be hazardous around candles or flames,” she said.
“That being said, sometimes you'll notice on the label that it might say flame resistant, but that does not mean fireproof. Polyester or nylon costume are also great choices too, because they do not ignite as readily as natural fibers like cotton.”
Masks and other face coverings are also very important to consider when choosing the right costume, Marini says.
“If they don't fit properly, that can affect your vision or breathing,” she said. “An alternative could be face paint, but if you do use face paint, try a little patch test beforehand just in case your skin is sensitive to the paint.”
Marini also advises to avoid danger when decorating by staying vigilant for fire hazards including candles, lighters and matches which should all be kept away from children as all are fire hazards and Health Canada instead suggests using flashlights or battery-operated candles to light jack-o-lanterns.
“If you have decorative lights, you want to just check for frayed wires, broken pieces you don't want to overload your extension cord, that can pose as a fire or electrical hazard,” she said.
“Also, property damage, physical hazards [are possible] when we talk about electrical and look for a recognized certification body on the product like the ULA or CSA.”
And, of course, Health Canada advises all parents and guardians to remember to always examine treats and toys that are brought home before giving them to your children.
For more tips on how to stay safe this Halloween, check out Health Canada’s Halloween Safety page.
