Dignity Health | St. Rose Dominican | Reach | Fall 2018

StRoseHospitals.org  7 Will you be sending a superhero, a swashbuckling pirate, or a creepy zombie out this Halloween? “Trick-or-treating in neighborhoods is fun, but it can put kids at risk, especially from vehicles,” says Emily Peterson, DO, FAAP, pediatrician at Dignity Health Medical Group. “Young children need close supervision by a trusted adult.” Road rules for a safer holiday Dr. Peterson suggests these tips to help trick-or-treaters of all ages return home safely. Light the night. Add reflective tape to costumes and bags. Light- colored clothing is also best. Have everyone carry a flashlight or glow sticks—they can light the way and help drivers see little walkers. possible. Remind kids to cross at crosswalks and to look left, right, and left again when crossing a street. Teach your child to make eye contact with drivers before crossing so they know they’ve been seen. Be ready for an emergency. If your child has a cellphone, make sure they know how to call 911. And encourage them to do so if they’re lost or seriously hurt. Parents: Be sure to check treats for choking hazards or tampering before allowing kids to eat them. Safety tips for a happy Halloween Choose costumes with safety in mind. Children should be able to see clearly. Face paint or makeup is safest. Masks should fit well and have large eyeholes. Go with sturdy shoes that are good for walking— and make sure costumes are short enough to prevent tripping. Stick together. Encourage your child to trick-or-treat with a group, and insist they stay together— especially when crossing streets. Only visit well-lit houses. Children should enter homes only if they are with a trusted adult—and should never accept rides from strangers. Stay out of the road. Instruct children to walk on sidewalks whenever possible. Otherwise, they should always walk facing traffic and as far from the road as Keep fright night fun Here for your family. When your child needs emergency care, the time spent waiting in the hospital can make you more anxious. Now you can select an estimated arrival time and wait at home: Go to StRoseHospitals.org/ER and choose a time on the Emergency Room selector. Halloween party? Go as a safe driver to help keep kids safe. Get timely tips at StRoseReach.org .