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Halloween Health Dangers

by Nicole Dorsey Straff

IMG_0996_Halloween2The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention have issued a flurry of warnings about the potential Halloween health dangers during the Halloween season, from allergy attacks in furry animal costumes all the way to tampering with chocolate confection wrappers. Also, parents, choose your costumes wisely, as part of a Halloween holiday health plan.

According to the CDC:

  • The brighter the better. Whether you buy a costume or make one yourself, choose bright hues and flame-retardant materials. If your child will be trick-or-treating outdoors after dark, attach reflective tape to his ccostume.
  • Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always walk and don’t run from house to house.
  • Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as low-sugar or gluten-free treats. For Halloween party guests,offer a variety of fruits, vegetables and exotic, low-fat cheeses.
  • Use party games and trick-or-treat time as an opportunity for kids to get their daily dose of 60 minutes of physical activity.
  • Keep lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways and curtains. Keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, too.
  • Use candles with care. Place candlelit pumpkins on a sturdy surface away from curtains and other flammable objects.
  • Never leave candlelit pumpkins unattended. Better yet, light pumpkins with flashlights or battery-operated flameless candles instead.

Halloween festivities (both childlike and adult versions) healthier this season?

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