Halloween is an exciting holiday for children and adults alike, and we’d like to remind parents and caregivers to take some simple precautions to make sure that everyone has a safe and happy Halloween. Here are a few tips:

Glow sticks can be dangerous

Glow sticks can cause a stinging and a burning sensation if the liquid comes in contact with the mouth or eyes. Be careful when children put these in their mouths as they are soft to chew on and can easily break open. If this happens, rinse with water and call the Nebraska Regional Poison Center at 800-222-1222.

Check treats carefully

When children trick-or-treat, treats should be carefully checked by adults. Homemade treats or anything out of its original wrapper should be thrown away unless parents are positive of the identity of the person from which it came.

Think about costume safety and visibility

Costumes should be warm, well-fitting and non-flammable. Masks should allow adequate vision and should be removed while children are crossing streets. Make sure children are accompanied by an adult and take a flashlight along if it’s dark.

Use nontoxic face paint as an alternative to masks. All makeup and fluorescent hair sprays should be removed before going to bed. Consider using reflective tape on costumes worn after dark.

Be heads-up about surroundings

Safety on Halloween means paying attention to everything from cracks in the sidewalk to erratic traffic patterns. Fall mushrooms may have popped up in lawns and under trees, and some mushrooms are poisonous.

Dry ice can cause frostbite

Punch containing dry ice is not considered dangerous if 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.

Treats can be poisonous for pets

Chocolate and xylitol are very poisonous to dogs. Xylitol is the sweetener found in sugar free candies and gum. Store all candy up and out of reach of dogs and other pets.

Keep alcohol out of reach of children

If hosting or going to a Halloween party, make sure alcohol is out of reach of children and animals.

For more information about responding to an incident involving poisoning visit DHW’s poison response webpage: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/health-wellness/emergency-planning/poison-response.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.