Ensuring a Safe and Hoppy Easter: Navigating Easter Egg Hazards

Easter is a time for family gatherings, festive egg hunts, and indulging in sweet treats. I know in my own family we share some beautiful family traditions that I hope are installed in my children and their children in years to come. While these traditions bring joy, it's essential for parents to be mindful of potential hazards, particularly when it comes to Easter eggs and Easter decorations. Understanding and mitigating these risks can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Recognising Choking Hazards

Unfortunately as fun as they are certain Easter treats do pose choking risks, especially for young children. Items like small, solid chocolate eggs are round and firm, making them particularly hazardous as they are the perfect size to block our little ones airways. Similarly, small Easter themed and shaped toys or trinkets found inside plastic eggs can be a choking hazard for children under the age of 4. 

Safe Easter Egg Practices

We're all human so this shouldn't mean our little ones have to miss out on the special treats and fun! We just need to implement some strategies To minimise risks associated with Easter eggs:

• Select Appropriate Treats: Opt for larger, hollow chocolate eggs that can be broken into small, manageable and age appropriate sized pieces. 

• Supervision: Always supervise young children while they are eating and enjoying their Easter treats. Choking incidents can occur quickly and silently. So we might not hear a choking child but we can see one.

• Inspect Hidden Items: If using plastic eggs filled with candies or small toys, ensure the contents are age-appropriate and free from choking hazards prior to your easter fun and treats.

Proper Handling of Hard-Boiled Easter Eggs

For families that incorporate hard-boiled eggs into their Easter celebrations and traditions:

• Cooking and Storage: Hard-cooked eggs should be refrigerated promptly and consumed within a few days. Avoid leaving them unrefrigerated for more than two hours to prevent foodborne illnesses. 

• Hiding and Hunting: When organizing Easter egg hunts, choose hiding spots that protect eggs from dirt, animals, and contaminants. Limit the hunt duration to under two hours to ensure the eggs remain safe for consumption.

Promoting a Safe Easter Experience

By staying informed and attentive, parents can navigate Easter festivities with confidence:

• Educate Caregivers and Family Members: Ensure that all adults involved in Easter activities are aware of potential hazards and safety measures and that everyone is on the same page.

• Use Clear Labeling: When preparing Easter baskets or organizing hunts, label items with age recommendations to prevent accidental exposure to inappropriate items.​

• Be prepared: Upskill, get hands on practice or refresh your Choking Child First Aid in case of an Emergency.

  
  

Enjoy your time and Hoppy Easter!