CDH Benefits Make Halloween Less Scary

Lots of people love Halloween, and Betty and I love to see the kids in their favorite superhero costumes! (Hint, hint!) People show their spirit by decorating houses and lawns, carving pumpkins, and dressing up. But as fun as Halloween is, it can also be a scary time … for example, you may cut your hands pumpkin carving, or your little one may get all skinned up from tripping over their costume.

Of course you know that using your CDH account benefits can help make a little less scary those things that go bump and scrape and owwwwwwwwww! in the night.

Some things that make Halloween scary

In a study of accidents involving driving while under the influence, NHTSA found that drunk-driving fatalities around Halloween are rising. Your little one may come home feeling ill thanks to food allergies, seasonal allergies, or just from eating too much candy.

And the number one cause of Halloween injuries? Pumpkin carving!

CDH Accounts Can Help!

But never fear, the Captain’s here! Flexible Savings Accounts (FSAs), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can help cover the costs of medications and first aid supplies such as allergy meds, bandages, and antiseptic products.

If you or a loved one suffer a deep cut, broken arm or other injury requiring prompt medical attention, you may need to visit an urgent care clinic or ER. UnitedHealth Group reports that the average cost of treating a common primary care treatable condition like these is over $2,000 — now THAT is frightening. But with a CDH account, covering the cost can be a lot less scary.

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:

• Children ages 12 and younger should be accompanied by adults
• 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

If you’re carving a pumpkin, use a toolkit specially designed for that purpose. These are designed to reduce the your chance of getting cut. In addition, children should never carve a pumpkin without close adult supervision.

Have a safe, fun, and not-at-all-scary Halloween!