Halloween Costume Safety In California

With the excitement of Halloween right around the corner, it’s easy to forget the safety precautions we should be taking to ensure a fun-filled and injury-free night. As the dedicated injury attorneys of a respected California personal injury law firm, we’ve seen the consequences of overlooked safety measures and we hope to help members of our community avoid the need to speak with a personal injury lawyer in the first place. Read on to understand how to better ensure that you’re able to keep yourself and your loved ones safe this spooky season.

The Startling Reality Of Halloween-Related Injuries

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 3,200 Halloween-related injuries are treated in U.S. emergency departments each year. A breakdown of these injuries reveals:

• 55% involved pumpkin carving mishaps
• 25% resulted from falls due to costume-related trips or decor set-up and removal
• 20% encompassed various issues such as cuts, ingestions, allergic reactions, or dermal challenges linked to costumes and decorations

Notably, while adults aren’t immune with 54% of the injured being over 18 years, children remain particularly vulnerable—especially those 6 years old or younger, who account for roughly 10% of all injuries.

Fire Safety And Its Importance

Fire-related safety is paramount, especially during festive seasons. CPSC reports indicate that between 2017 and 2019, candles and electrical outlets and cords were linked to an average of thousands of fires each year. 

Tips For Ensuring A Safe Halloween

Pumpkin Carving

• Adults should handle the carving. Kids can be involved by scooping out pumpkin insides or drawing designs.
• Use glow sticks or lights that run on batteries in jack-o’-lanterns instead of open-flame candles.
• If candles are your choice, place them far from flammable objects and never leave them unattended.

Costumes

• Choose well-fitting costumes to avoid tripping hazards.
• Avoid loose, flowing fabrics near open flames.
• Select costumes made from flame-resistant materials instead of those that can easily catch fire. 
• Ensure masks allow full visibility and adequate breathing. Consider makeup as a safer alternative.
• Enhance visibility by using reflective tape and carrying flashlights or glow sticks.

Decorating

• Prioritize battery-operated lights and glow sticks over candles.
• Ensure walkways are clear of obstacles for trick-or-treaters.
• Adhere to the government’s ladder safety guidelines during decoration setup and removal.
• Use only lights tested for safety and inspect them for any damage before use.

Choose The Right Personal Injury Attorney: Contact Us Today

Halloween is a time for fun, creativity, and making memories. By following these guidelines and being proactive about safety, you can ensure that the only scares this season are the ones intended for fun.

When you’re grappling with the consequences of a personal injury scenario, you need a personal injury lawyer who listens, understands, and fights for you. Our dedicated team of lawyers at The Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC focuses on personal injury law, and our goals involve ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Don’t gamble with your future; secure the experienced representation you deserve. With multiple offices in Irvine, Los Angeles, El Segundo, San Diego, and Riverside, our personal injury attorneys represent injured victims across Southern California. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our attorneys, please call (888) 848-5084.