Kane County Reporter

State Representative Dan Ugaste urged Illinois residents to prioritize safety during Halloween in an October 25 Facebook post. He said, "Brush up on these spook-tacular safety tips before heading out to trick-or-treat next week."

"Let's make sure everyone has a safe and fun Halloween this year," said Ugaste, according to Facebook. "Brush up on these spook-tacular safety tips before heading out to trick-or-treat next week."

According to Ugaste's Facebook post, he shared a link to a Republican Caucus Blog that emphasizes Halloween safety tips. The blog highlights that injuries leading to emergency room visits tend to increase on Halloween, but adherence to safety guidelines can reduce the risk. These recommendations include ensuring costumes are flame-resistant and fit properly; using nontoxic makeup instead of masks; and avoiding colored contact lenses. Additionally, the blog advises adding a child's name, address, and phone number to their candy baskets, employing the buddy system, planning a route, and setting a return time for children.

Screenshot of State Rep. Dan Ugaste's October 25 Facebook post. | State Representative Dan Ugaste's Facebook page

SCP Health reports that Halloween ranks among the top five holidays for emergency department visits due to injuries or allergic reactions. An October 26, 2018 report notes that between 2007 and 2016, over 700,000 children and teens experienced Halloween-related injuries, with nearly one in five being head injuries. To mitigate risks such as hand and finger lacerations from pumpkin carving or accidents caused by poorly fitting costumes or obstructive masks, SCP Health suggests ensuring costumes fit well and do not impede vision.

Ugaste has represented Illinois' 65th House District since 2018. Prior to his political career, he was an attorney and shareholder at Nyhan, Bambrick, Kinzie & Lowry focusing on workers' compensation defense. Ugaste has also served as President of the Lake Forest College Alumni Board and held leadership roles in various bar associations. He is an alumnus of Lake Forest High School and Lake Forest College and holds a Juris Doctorate degree from DePaul University.