Tips for a Safe and Healthy Halloween

Everyone wants a Halloween heavy on the treats and with not too many tricks, like an unwanted trip to the emergency room. Here are some quick tips to keep your ghouls and goblins safe and healthy this spooky season.

Costume Safety
• Use glow sticks, flashlights or reflective tape to help kids see and be seen
• When buying costumes, look for “flame resistant” on the label
• Test any makeup beforehand – put a small amount on the arm and check for redness, swelling or irritation
• Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye exam and a prescription
• Make sure costumes do not obstruct vision or present a tripping hazard

Food Safety
• Give kids a snack before heading out to avoid the temptation of snacking on treats
• Inspect all candy at home – check labels for food allergy information, remove any choking hazards for small children and look for signs of tampering (tears, pinholes, discoloration or unusual appearance)
• Consider giving away non-food items such as stickers or pencils to cut down on the sweets and to accommodate trick-or-treaters with food allergies

Home and Road Safety
• Drivers, turn on your headlights early, go slower than usual and watch for kids crossing streets
• Make sure your walkway and entryway are clear of obstacles
• Turn on your outdoor lights
• Do not use lit candles in pumpkins
• Keep your pets enclosed and away from the action if they are noise-sensitive

We hope these tips help keep everyone safe on Halloween. Remember, if something unexpected does arise and urgent care is needed, our expert team is here to help. Don't hesitate to visit one of our convenient urgent care locations for prompt, personalized care.