Halloween is a favorite time of year for some, from decorations to pumpkin carving to dressing up. However, it can also be a time of pumpkin carving cuts, bumps and bruises, sprains, and even broken bones from tripping over costumes. Let’s talk about staying safe, Halloween health, and your CDH accounts.
Some of the reasons why Halloween is so scary
Halloween is undoubtedly fun, but dangers are lurking and parents need to be vigilant. Children’s allergies are on high alert, from environmental triggers to food sensitivities. The NHTSA has found that Halloween drunk-driving fatalities are rising. And finally, the number one cause of Halloween injuries is – you guessed it – pumpkin carving.
CDH Accounts Can Help!
If someone in your household nicks their hand while pumpkin carving, comes home amid a full-blown allergy attack, or has a tummy ache from too much candy, your CDH accounts can help. Use your Flexible Savings Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to help cover the cost of first aid supplies and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
If someone sustains a more serious injury requiring an emergency room visit, the cost can be scarier than anything else. According to UnitedHealth Group, the average cost of receiving care for a common primary-care-treatable condition is over $2,000. But with a CDH account, covering the bill doesn’t have to be quite as frightening.
See a list of FSA Eligible Expenses and HSA Eligible Expenses. HRA-eligible expenses vary by employer. Consult your plan guidelines or contact a benefits representative to learn more.
Tips for a Safe Halloween
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) urge celebrants of all ages to put safety first:
- An adult should accompany children (at least those 12 and under)
- Walk on sidewalks and avoid cutting across lawns and driveways
- Wear flame-resistant, properly-fitted costumes
- Wear comfortable, slip-resistant shoes
- Approach only well-lit houses
- Carry a flashlight and wear reflective tape
- Be aware of neighborhood dogs
- Carry a cell phone in case of emergency
For pumpkin carving, it’s a good idea to use a carving toolkit specially designed to reduce the risk of injury. Children should always be under careful adult supervision.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!
For 40 years, DataPath has been a pivotal force in the employee benefits, financial services, and insurance industries. The company’s flagship DataPath Summit platform offers an integrated solution for managing CDH, HSA, Well-Being, COBRA, and Billing. Through its partnership with Accelergent Growth Solutions, DataPath also offers expert BPO services, automation, outsourced customer service, and award-winning marketing services.