Story by Nebraska Poison Center
Halloween is an exciting holiday for children. The staff at the Poison Center would 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 about these tricks!
* Glow sticks can cause a burning or stinging sensation if the liquid gets in the mouth or eyes. These products are soft to chew on and can easily break open. Be watchful, if this happens, rinse with water and call the Poison Center.
* If the children are trick-or-treating, homemade treats or anything out of the original wrapper should be thrown away unless parents are positive of the identity of the person from which it came.
* 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 is 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.
* Drinks containing dry ice are 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.
* 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.
* If hosting or going to a Halloween party, make sure alcohol, nicotine and cannabis products (including edibles) are out of reach of children and animals.
* Nicotine containing products include cigarettes, vapes and e-liquids, pouches, chewing tobacco and more. The Poison Center can answer questions and help manage nicotine exposures.
The Nebraska Poison Center is a free and confidential service to the public.
Call 1-800-222-1222 to speak with a Registered Nurse or Pharmacist 24/7/365.