No spells will be cast on “trick or treaters” this Halloween with a few sensible tips from the Nebraska Regional Poison Center.
Take the following preventive measures to keep children safe this Halloween:
- Glow sticks can cause immediate stinging and a burning sensation if the liquid comes in contact with the mouth or the eyes.
- Sponsor a block party as an alternative to wide-range trick-or-treating.
- Give out non-edible treats such as stickers, pencils, erasers, barrettes or other party favors.
- When children trick-or-treat, treats should be carefully inspected by adults. Homemade treats or anything out of their original wrappers should be discarded unless parents are positive of the identity of the person from which they came.
- Providing children with a full meal before trick-or-treating will reduce the temptation for children to eat treats before they return home.
- Make sure children are accompanied by an adult and take a flashlight along if it is dark. All children should stay in their own neighborhood and only go in homes of friends and family.
- Costumes should be warm, well fitting and non-flammable. Masks should provide adequate vision and should be removed while children are crossing streets. Use inexpensive, nontoxic face paint as an alternative to masks. Consider using reflective tape on costumes worn after dark.
- Serving punch containing dry ice is not considered dangerous as long as the ice is not swallowed in its solid form. Small pieces should not be put in individual glasses. Frostbite can occur if dry ice touches the skin or mouth.
- Stay away from barking dogs or upset animals.
For more information, contact the Nebraska Regional Poison Center by calling (402) 955-5555 in the Omaha metropolitan area or toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
The Nebraska Regional Poison Center is sponsored by UNMC and The Nebraska Medical Center.