MT. LAUREL, NJ (Oct 25, 2022) – The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has just released the official safety guidelines for 2022 as the country prepares for the biggest Halloween in US history. With 93% of all Americans planning to celebrate, more than 300 million in total, the HCA is urging everyone to play it safe while they Play 4 Days.
“Statistically speaking, parents often miss out on some important opportunities to help ensure the safety of their trick or treaters. With record-setting Halloween participation this year, we’re encouraging everyone to practice safety throughout the Halloweekend,” said Gregor Lawson, Halloween & Costume Association Chairman and co-founder of MorphCostumes.
As many schools, churches, and communities plan to kick off costume parades and festivities on Friday this year, the Halloweekend promises 4 fun-filled days of celebrations. The HCA’s safety recommendations were designed to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on what is currently known as the deadliest night of the year. With more than 60% of all accidents occurring between 5:00pm and 9:00pm parents are encouraged to discuss Halloween safety AND accompany children while trick or treating. The HCA’s 10-day Safety Countdown includes the following tips:
10: Lighten up. 63% of children don’t carry a flashlight while they’re trick or treating. Grab a clip-on light if they don’t want to carry one!
9: Tag along. 70% of parents don’t accompany their children trick or treating. You’re never too old to trick-or-treat! Grab a costume, enjoy some family bonding, and be sure to claim your treat tax!
8: Talk about it. 65% of parents don’t discuss Halloween safety with their children. Talk with your kids and offer ways to ensure a fun and safe experience.
7: Avoid flames. Halloween is a holiday with hidden and uncommon fire dangers. Avoid open flames, use battery operated lights instead!
6: Drive safe. Stay alert and slow down for our trick or treaters and costumed characters. Pay extra attention for kids crossing in the middle of the block.
5. Tighten up. Make sure your fit is just right! Avoid costumes that drag and oversized masks.
4. Walk safe. Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween. Discuss safety, pre-plan a route, stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks.
3. Leash up. Keep your costumed critters on a leash or left safely inside. Tags and microchips can help avoid lost loved ones.
2. Stick Together. Halloween is way more fun with friends and fam! Go out in groups, there’s safety in numbers.
1. Shine, sparkle and glow. 82% of parents don’t use reflective tape or other high visibility aids on their child’s costume. Be sure to incorporate reflective tape, glow sticks, finger lights or light-up accessories.
The HCA is encouraging parents to get involved this Halloweekend to ensure the safety of their family members. A shocking 12% of children 5 years old and younger are sent out to trick or treat alone. Statistically, the majority of all child fatalities on Halloween occur with children ages 12-15 (32%), followed by children ages 5-8 (23%). Tagging along with all trick or treaters, even from an embarrassment-free distance, if necessary, is recommended.
“This is truly a holiday for all to enjoy. We can help ensure a safe, fun-filled weekend of Halloween memory making by following a few simple safety tips,” concluded Lawson. Follow the 10-day Safety countdown videos on the HCA Instagram or on Party City's IG story.
For more tips, trends, & random reasons to sport a superhero suit, visit www.Halloween2022.org. The HCA has countless costume connoisseurs available for interview.
For Media Inquiries, Expert Commentary or Product Samples please contact Aneisha McMillan This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / 910.849.9003
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About the Halloween & Costume Association
Known as THE industry source for Halloween, with cumulative sales of $3 billion, the HCA has earned the title of “EXPERT” when it comes to all things costume related. These are the folks that live and breathe October all year long and can dish for days on the myths, legends, trends, traditions, safety tips and devilish details that only a true insider would know.
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Aneisha McMillan
Marketing Maven
Halloween & Costume Association
www.halloweencostumeassociation.org
e: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
p: 910-849-9003