{
  "id": 16769649,
  "title": "5 tips for a safer Halloween",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/27/5-tips-for-a-safer-halloween",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-27T16:49:45.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Futurity",
    "slug": "futurity",
    "url": "https://www.futurity.org/halloween-safety-tips-3350712/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Halloween can be a thrilling yet potentially hazardous holiday for families. University of Missouri Extension specialists Maria Calvert and Rachel O’Halloran offer five practical tips to ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable experience for all. First, costumes should be both creative and practical. They should fit well, be short enough to avoid tripping, and equipped with reflective tape for better visibility. Calvert advises testing costumes in advance to identify any issues. After the night's festivities, it's essential to remove costumes, makeup, and accessories to prevent skin irritation and other hazards. For young trick-or-treaters, practice the routine at home, select a familiar route, and start early to avoid overwhelming them. Remind children that visiting a few homes is often enough, and flexibility in expectations is key. When collecting candy, plan the route beforehand and review basic safety guidelines. Young children should be accompanied by adults, while older kids should travel in groups. Stick to well-lit streets, use sidewalks, and cross at designated crosswalks. Community trunk-or-treat events are another option for a safer celebration. Always inspect treats before children consume them, discarding any questionable items. Remember that not all treats are safe for everyone. Some candies may contain allergens that could trigger reactions, particularly for children with alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy. Consider providing non-food treats, such as stickers or small toys, or indicate with a teal pumpkin that non-food items are available. Lastly, establish a plan for the candy collected. O’Halloran suggests serving a nutritious meal beforehand, using smaller containers, and helping children sort their treats. Encourage them to enjoy a few favorites and save the rest for later. By following these guidelines, families can fully embrace the Halloween spirit while minimizing potential risks.",
  "summary": "While a few spooky surprises are part of the fun of Halloween, a little preparation can help families avoid real-life scares.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}