With Halloween just around the corner, the New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) and the American Red Cross in Greater New York shared important tips to help keep little trick-or-treaters safe. ‘, including tips on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and die on Halloween than on any other day of the year. That is why ACS and the American Red Cross advise that the costumes children wear allow them not only to see well but also to be seen.
They also urge parents to make sure children are never alone trick-or-treating, do not walk on the sidewalk alone, never enter someone’s home, and more. Additionally, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, ACS and the American Red Cross are encouraging families to trick or treat outdoors and even step back 6 feet after ringing the doorbell. Masks sold as part of Halloween costumes are not effective in stopping the transmission of COVID-19 so children should wear a mask over any costume mask. They should not wear it under a disguise mask, as it can make breathing difficult.
“This Halloween, we want children across the city to have fun but also be safe,” said Commissioner David A. Hansell. “From choosing the right costume and wearing the proper face covering, to planning a route in advance, carrying a flashlight, and more, there are many ways to ensure kids stay safe this Halloween, including COVID-19.”
“Being safe on Halloween can still spell a spooky good time for everyone. Whether you’re handing out treats or going door-to-door, with just a few simple considerations you can ensure that your family and those around you are safe and sound, ”said Mary J. Barneby, executive director of the American Red Cross. in Greater New York.
Advice
Make sure children see and can be seen
- Give them a flashlight to light their way.
- Have everyone wear light-colored clothing. Add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags to make it easier for kids to see in the dark.
- Wear fire resistant costumes.
Children should never be alone
- Plan the route in advance.
- A parent or responsible adult should escort young children door to door in neighborhoods.
Walk only on the sidewalks, not on the street
- Make sure the child walks, not run.
- Look both ways before crossing the street and cross only at the corner.
- Do not cross between parked cars.
- Never walk down alleys or cross courtyards. Only cross the street at designated crosswalks.
- Adults should be especially careful when driving. Minors are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.
Accept treats at the door, never come in
- Children should not only fear vampires and monsters. They must be careful with animals, especially dogs.
- Be sure to check the treats before your little one eats them.
- Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages, and choking hazards.
For additional Halloween COVID-19 safety tips, see the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene website: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/covid/covid-19-halloween.pdf
eldiariony.com
Eddie is an Australian news reporter with over 9 years in the industry and has published on Forbes and tech crunch.