Keep Your Night Fright-Free
Halloween is all about costumes, candy and spooky fun, but a few simple precautions can help keep your feet from becoming part of the scare. Whether you’re taking the kids trick-or-treating, handing out candy or heading to a Halloween event, Halloween foot safety can help prevent common bumps, bruises and trips.
Watch your step after dark
Trick-or-treating often means walking after sunset, when it can be harder to spot uneven sidewalks, curbs, cracks and other obstacles. Stick to well-lit routes whenever possible and use a flashlight or your phone’s light when needed.
Wet leaves can also become slippery in late October. Slow down when walking over piles of leaves, especially on stairs, driveways and uneven sidewalks.
Keep costumes from becoming a trip hazard
Long costumes, capes and oversized accessories can make walking more difficult. Make sure costumes are short enough that they won’t drag on the ground or get caught underfoot.
If you’re wearing a costume with a mask, make sure you can still see clearly while walking. Limited vision combined with dark streets and uneven surfaces can be a recipe for a fall.
Be careful with Halloween decorations
Pumpkins, cords, inflatables and other decorations can create unexpected obstacles around your home. Keep walkways clear and make sure electrical cords are secured and out of the way.
If you’re decorating your front entrance, remember that trick-or-treaters of all ages will be navigating the area, including young children who may not notice hazards underfoot.
Give tired feet a break
A long evening of walking can leave your feet sore, especially if you aren’t used to spending several hours on your feet. Take breaks when needed, stay hydrated and give your feet some time to recover when you get home.
Blisters, persistent foot pain or an injury that doesn’t seem to be improving shouldn’t simply be ignored.
Have a safe and happy Halloween
A little planning can go a long way toward keeping Halloween fun. Clear your walkways, check your costume, watch for slippery surfaces and pay attention to where you’re walking.
If you do experience ongoing foot pain after a Halloween mishap, a chiropodist can assess the problem and recommend appropriate treatment.
At Werkman, Boven & Associates Foot & Orthotic Clinic, we provide exceptional foot care for all ages.
Stay safe, watch your step and have a spook-tacular Halloween!
