Halloween should be full of treats, not unexpected trips to the doctor! As you prepare for a night of costumes, candy and trick-or-treating, keep these health and safety tips in mind.
- Watch Out for Food Allergens and Choking Hazards ― Candy can contain hidden allergens, including peanuts, tree nuts, milk and soy, that may trigger reactions. Check labels carefully, and be cautious with homemade or unpackaged treats. If your child has a known food allergy, keep their prescribed epinephrine auto-injector readily available. Also, remember that hard candies, gum and small toys can pose choking risks, particularly for children under four years of age.
- Choose Costume Makeup Carefully ― Face paints, fake blood and other Halloween cosmetics can irritate skin or trigger allergic reactions. Choose products specifically formulated for cosmetic use, check ingredient labels, and test a small amount on the skin before applying it to the face. Avoid craft paints and products not intended for skin, and remove makeup thoroughly before bed. If a product causes redness, itching or swelling, wash it off and discontinue use.
- Skip Unregulated Decorative Contact Lenses ― Colored or novelty contact lenses may seem like an easy way to complete a costume, but improperly fitted or unregulated lenses can cause corneal scratches, infections and even lasting vision damage. Even if you don’t need vision correction, contact lenses should be prescribed and properly fitted by an eye-care professional. When in doubt, choose a different costume accessory.
- Enjoy Candy in Moderation ― It’s tempting to let kids enjoy their Halloween haul all at once, but eating large amounts of candy can cause stomach discomfort and expose teeth to excessive sugar. Let children enjoy a reasonable selection of treats, encourage water instead of sugary drinks, and maintain their usual brushing and flossing routine. Moderation doesn’t have to mean missing out on the fun!
- Prevent Pumpkin and Costume-Related Injuries ― Long costume hems, oversized shoes, masks that obstruct vision and sharp costume accessories can increase the risk of falls and other injuries. Choose costumes that fit properly, use face paint instead of masks that limit sight, and opt for soft props rather than sharp or pointed objects. Oh, and when carving pumpkins, adults should handle the knives, while children can help with safer tasks. Battery-operated lights are also a safer alternative to open flames.
- Stay Visible, Warm and Prepared ― Halloween often means walking outdoors after dark in chilly or wet weather. Add reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes and treat bags, carry a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes, and make sure children can see and move freely. If your child has asthma, remember that cold air, smoke machines and fog effects may trigger symptoms; bring prescribed rescue medication along. Remind trick-or-treaters to use sidewalks and cross at designated crossings.
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping Halloween healthy and enjoyable. If someone develops signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, throat swelling or collapse, use prescribed epinephrine immediately and call 911. Don’t wait to see if symptoms improve. Not an emergency but still have a related health concern? Contact your FCMG clinician.