As Halloween approaches, kids are getting excited to pick out their costumes and dress up as their favorite characters. However, there are hidden dangers that parents should be aware of when it comes to Halloween costumes, according to expert Tom Golubovich.
Masks, a popular choice for costumes, can actually pose risks to children, especially those under five. The thick materials and small breathing holes in masks can restrict airflow, leading to breathing issues, especially during physical activities like trick-or-treating. Young children with smaller airways are particularly at risk.
Ill-fitting masks can also obstruct vision, increasing the chances of trips and falls, especially on dark streets. Constantly adjusting uncomfortable masks can also distract children from their surroundings, potentially leading to separation from their group in crowded Halloween events.
In addition to safety concerns, sharing and swapping costumes between kids can spread germs and bacteria. Trying on each other’s masks can lead to the transmission of cold viruses and head lice. To prevent this, it’s important for children to use their own costumes and avoid sharing masks.
To address these issues, Tom recommends using face paint and makeup as safer alternatives to masks. This allows kids to get creative with their costumes without compromising their safety. When using face paint, it’s important to choose hypoallergenic products to protect sensitive skin.
In addition to these tips, parents should also follow safety guidelines for Halloween costumes, such as checking for UKCA or UKNI marks on labels, keeping costumes away from fire, and supervising children around lit candles. Homemade costumes or those not tested for flammability standards should be avoided to prevent accidents.
By being aware of the hidden dangers of Halloween costumes and following safety precautions, parents can ensure that their children have a fun and safe Halloween experience. Let’s make sure that this spooky holiday is filled with treats, not tricks!