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Posted on October 24, 2007 by Jason Petrina | Posted under News and Society
Halloween Costume Safety
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Many store bought Halloween costumes are now fire resistant. This is important because when trick-or-treating, many homes have jack-o-lanterns with candles burning inside on their porches or in their yards. If the costume isn't fire resistant, you or your child could catch on fire, and literally burn to death. If your Halloween costume is home made, use fire resistant materials. Instead of using a mask, use Halloween makeup. Masks often reduce vision, making it hard to see obstacles in the path, or oncoming traffic. If your costume won't be complete without a mask, try to choose one that fits snuggly against the face - especially the eye area. If it fits the natural curves of the face, and the eye holes are large enough, vision should not be a problem. Hand held face masks are ideal for adults and older kids. If you are using makeup, try to use hypoallergenic makeup, and apply it where it won't run down into the eyes. You can also apply a little petroleum jelly around your eyes to keep the makeup from running into that area. Make sure that you don't get the petroleum jelly in your eyes! Also, make sure that the makeup you select is non-toxic. Wigs, beards, hoods, and masks should not cover the ears, nose, or mouth. The nose and mouth need air - but the ears need to be able to hear what is going on around you or your child for safety reasons. Make sure the Halloween costume allows for easy movement, and does not present a trip hazard. Movement of the arms, legs, and head are essential. Make sure there is room for climbing up and down stairs, bending, and walking. For younger children, you may need to make sure that they can easily get out of the costume in case they need to use the restroom. Costumes can be very complex, but try to use Velcro or snaps for closures. Make sure you can breathe! Costumes that encompass the head can be dangerous if there is not proper ventilation, and in most cases of carbon dioxide poisoning, the person doesn't realize what is happening. Make sure there are vent holes for the mouth, nose, and the top of the head. If you need to, you can cover these holes with screening or mesh. Costumes that are too tight around the diaphragm are also dangerous. Beware of costumes that are billowy as they may get caught on other objects and snag or tear. Try to wear a costume that will allow you to wear other clothing underneath - in case of snags or tears, or for extra warmth. Make sure that the costume does not drag the ground, as this can cause you to trip and break bones. If you are trick-or-treating, a good pair of walking shoes is essential. Never go without shoes, or with flimsy shoes that won't protect your feet! Make sure that you and your child can be seen. Using bright, reflective colored material is recommended, but for some Halloween costumes, this ruins the affect. In this case, make sure that accessories are easily seen, such as candy buckets. No matter what, make a flashlight part of the costume - even if it doesn't fit in with the theme. Strips of reflective tape are also recommended. Remember, safety comes first. Finally, for children, take one more safety precaution. Sew or pin a name tag on the costume with the child's name, address, phone number, and parent's name. You may want to include an alternate phone number, such as that of a grandparent, as well. Don't put this information in plain sight, for the entire world to see - that would just create more danger. Instead, let your child know it is there, and talk to them about Halloween safety. Tell them exactly what you want them to do if they become lost, and make them repeat those instructions back to you. About The Author: Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com |
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