For the many parents taking their children out trick and treating or partying on Halloween this week (Monday), Consumer and Business Services (CBS) has put together its ‘spook-tacular’ safety tips to ensure the night doesn’t end in a fright.
According to CBS, Halloween is becoming increasingly popular in Australia with many people using the occasion to dress up, go to themed parties, decorate their house and go trick or treating.
Its first advice for the parent is to check that toys and novelties are child-proof.
“Many small toys and novelty items contain button batteries,” CBS said.
“When buying light up or musical Halloween novelties that are powered by button batteries, check that the battery compartment is secured with a screw or similar fastener to prevent little ones gaining access to the battery,” it said.
“Check that Halloween novelties are age appropriate and don’t pose choking hazards.”
CBS said statistics on button batteries aren’t pretty.
“In Australia one child a month is seriously injured after swallowing or inserting a button battery, with some of them sustaining lifelong injuries,” it said.
“Products that comply with mandatory standards will have secure battery compartments and safety labelling.
“If you suspect a child has swallowed or inserted a button battery, immediately call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for 24/7 fast, expert advice. If your child is having any difficulty breathing, contact 000.”
CBS advised parents to check ingredient labels if the kids planned to use fake tattoos, face paint, makeup or fake blood,
“Check that they come with ingredient labels and keep them handy throughout the night,” it said.
“If someone in your group has an allergic reaction to a product, having a list of ingredients available to show doctors can save vital time when determining how to treat the person.”
It advised families to avoid disappearing into the night by ensuring costumes are made visible.
“If you or your children will be wearing black or other dark coloured costumes for Halloween, you could be hard to see in the dark,” CBS said.
“To ensure drivers and other trick-or-treaters can see you, add glow sticks or a reflective strip to your costumes and carry a torch.”
The Agency also recommended that with so many ready-made costumes, wigs, masks and accessories to choose from, a parent should check the labels.
“Pick items that are low fire risk and look for labels that state the product is ‘flame resistant’ or ‘fire resistant’,” CBS said.
“Take care to keep away from open heat sources such as jack-o-lanterns, fireplaces and heaters and avoid loose fitting costumes, particularly if you or your little ones will be around candles.”
