SAFETY ON THE DAY OF HALLOWEEN
This Saturday I would ask for my“calaverita”, but my kids will take me to trick-or-treat instead. Either way is great fun! But as a responsible parent I would like to share some tips to make this Halloween and Day of the Dead healthy, safe and fun holidays. So please take note:
- Before going out to trick or treat offer a snack to your children, to avoid the temptation of opening the candy before you get home, and explain why it is important to take certain precautions. Parents need to check all treats before children eat it. Remember, they do not have to eat all the candy in one night or even the next day. With this in mind parents can inspect the treat bounty and insure that only individually wrapped candies that have no signs of being tampered with previously. If in doubt, take no risks and just discard them! You should not give them to your pets, as for example it is known that chocolate is harmful to some dogs. Before eating candy, please, make sure children wash their hands. Of course costumes should be of flame resistant materials. Costumes must be adjusted to the extent required to fit your child and if they involve wigs or head coverings avoid blocking their eyes to prevent falls. Read the ingredients in the makeup so that they are not toxic, as the skin of children is particularly delicate and certain compounds in their makeup can cause an allergic reaction.
- Start your trick or treat early so you do not rush and finish early. Carry a flashlight. Phosphorescent strips can be put on clothing so they can be seen by car drivers. Avoid areas or homes with the lights off. Try to go in groups, and of course, adults should accompany their children.
- Avoid decorations with candles near the doors where children traffic is most likely for trick or treat for obvious reasons. It is also recommended to not put candles near curtains or flammable materials. There are battery artificial candles that are an alternative to traditionally candles used on the altars for the Day of the Dead. Be careful that Day of the Dead offerings are kept out of reach of children whenever possible to avoid accidents. If you offer food be careful that children do not snack or eat them after several days to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
- During these celebrations it is important that both parents and children drink plenty of water. Remember that it is cold and flu season so wash your hands frequently specially when handling treats.
Please enjoy the Halloween tricks and treats, Day of the Dead offerings, and be at peace with yourselves and with your deceased ancestors. Adults do not forget to maintain your diet, especially if you have diabetes. Practice portion control when you are eating “pan de muerto” and all the sweet traditional pies. Everything in moderation, so that this Halloween and Day of the Dead is not a reason to cause a horrible and frightening diabetic coma the next day!
Araceli Vazquez is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with practices in Dallas. You may write to Araceli@dietgenics.com or call 972-664-0846.
