AN expert has revealed the hidden dangers of kids’ Halloween costumes, including nits and lurgy.
Halloween is fast approaching, and many of our little ones will be excitedly planning which of their favourite film characters or spooky creatures to dress up with.
Halloween can be great fun for children[/caption]
However, masks can cause a variety of health and safety issues[/caption]
Throwing a mask on can be a simple way to immediately transform yourself into a frightening ghoul.
However, Tom Golubovich, a Halloween & design expert from Ninja Transfers, highlighted that masks can actually pose a number of dangers to children, especially those under five.
He said: “While masks might seem like an easy way to complete a costume, they can actually cause hidden safety concerns for young children.
“From breathing issues to hygiene concerns involving germs and nits, there are better and safer alternatives for kids this Halloween.”
Breathing Issues
Halloween masks are often made with thick materials, and have small breathing holes, meaning that they can restrict airflow.
Tom said: “The physical exertion of walking from house to house, combined with the excitement of the night, may exacerbate breathing difficulties when wearing a mask.”
He added that younger children have smaller airways, meaning that Halloween masks could turn a fun night into a dangerous experience for little ones.
Safety and Comfort
Halloween masks that don’t fit right can obstruct children’s vision, increasing the risk of trips and falls on dark streets.
Tom added: “The constant adjustment of an uncomfortable mask can also distract children from paying attention to their surroundings, potentially leading to separation from their group in crowded Halloween events.
“These safety concerns are amplified in bustling trick-or-treat scenarios where visibility and awareness are crucial.”
Hygiene
A great way to save money, is for kids to swap and share costumes between them.
However, this can lead to the spread of germs and bacteria.
Children trying on each other’s masks could lead to the spread of cold viruses, and even head lice.
Safety advice for parents about Halloween costumes
The ROSPA has advice for parents around Halloween costumes and children’s safety…
- Check that all Halloween and fancy dress costumes you buy carry a UKCA or UKNI mark on the label
- As with all clothing, Halloween and fancy dress outfits should always be kept away from fire, lit candles and all other naked flames
- If lit candles are part of your celebrations always follow their safety guidelines, and remember:
- Always supervise children and pets if using lit candles
- Do not allow children to carry, play, reach over, light or be near lit candles
- Never leave a burning candle unattended
- Remember always to extinguish a candle completely after use
- Take care when using candles at Halloween. Do not carry pumpkins with lit candles inside, consider using battery-operated candles instead
- Children should always be supervised by a suitable adult
- If fireworks are part of your celebrations, follow the Firework Code (see our fireworks safety page for more information)
- Be aware that homemade fancy dress costumes or those not tested to the same flammability standards may ignite easily and burn quicker
- Ensure children can be seen in the dark; ideally they should wear something reflective such as a reflective strip, and carry a torch.
Tom added: “This practice is particularly risky given that many kids touch their faces frequently while adjusting ill-fitting masks and sharing masks with each other.”
“Additionally, the warm, moist environment inside a mask can become a breeding ground for bacteria, especially when worn for extended periods during trick-or-treating or Halloween parties.”
Instead of masks, Tom recommends using face paint and makeup instead.
This is a great way to get creative, but make sure to use hypoallergenic products, to protect sensitive skin.
