Keep safety in mind this Halloween

Getting dressed up, carving pumpkins and trick-or-treating on Halloween can be fun childhood experiences, but they also can be dangerous.

The Rosemont, IL-based American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers the following tips to help keep your children safe this Halloween:

• Never let children carve pumpkins. Adults should carve on a sturdy surface with a specifically designed carving knife.
• As an alternative to carving, consider painting pumpkins to eliminate the risk of cuts.
• Be mindful of fire hazards when lighting a jack-o'-lantern with a candle, or use alternative light sources such as glow sticks.
• Be sure costumes are light and bright so children are clearly visible. Trim costumes with reflective, glow-in-the-dark tape.
• Make sure costumes are flame-resistant and fit properly. Masks should not obstruct vision.
• Make sure children know to walk on sidewalks rather than cutting across yards or driveways. Traffic signals should be obeyed at all crosswalks.
• Allow children to approach well-lit homes only. Both children and parents should consider carrying flashlights.
• Carry a cell phone while trick-or-treating in case of emergency.