It’s that time of year when kids get all dressed up in their favorite Halloween costumes and head out to their neighbor’s homes to collect all kinds of candy as they belt out “Trick or Treat!” Sometimes adults even get in on the fun and dress up too. While Halloween can be an exciting time for kids, it is extremely important that adults be cautious about potential poisonings.
The Texas Poison Center Network wants you to have a safe
and happy Halloween so check out these tips to keep in mind to ensure safe fun
for all!
Halloween
Safety Tips
ü Provide your child with a nourishing meal or
snack before trick-or-treating. A hungry
child is much more apt to sample treats before returning home. Candy treats, as well as sweet drinks, eaten
while trick-or-treating often contribute to stomach upset symptoms.
ü
Children should never eat Halloween candy
until an adult has inspected it. Some
over the counter medications look exactly like small candies, so never let your
children eat unwrapped candy or homemade goodies. Better to toss something away than take the
chance it contains a potentially poisonous substance. Remember this saying: “When in doubt, throw it out!”
ü
Ensure that costumes are reflective and that
your children carry flashlights or glow sticks. Also, watch out for cars!
ü
Use
makeup that is labeled as non-toxic to reduce the risk of skin
irritations. Other products may contain
emollients, laxatives, talc and even hydrocarbons that may cause skin
irritations.
ü
Accompany
young children at all times and only visit familiar well-lit homes.
ü
Avoid
eating fruit and homemade treats unless they are from a trusted source.
ü
Remember
that small items can be a choking hazard: gum, peanuts, hard candy and even
small toys.
ü
Remember
to keep dogs on a leash at all times.
Dogs can bite if they feel threatened or confused especially when approached
by someone wearing a mask or costume.
