Halloween Eye Safety
Halloween should be a fun time that your child remembers for years to come. Every year, there are several hundred eye injuries related to costumes and masks treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms. There are many things you can do to ensure your child enjoys a safe Halloween and prevent a night of treats from turning into a night of tragedy.
Be safe this Halloween by following these tips:
Trick-or-treat during the day to ensure proper lighting and to ensure better navigation of the sidewalks. A safer option is to go to a Halloween party instead of trick-or-treating.
If you are going trick-or-treating at night, bring a flashlight so paths are clearly lit. Flashlights also make children more visible to drivers.
Ensure that costumes are bright and reflective for increased visibility by drivers.
Young trick-or-treaters should be accompanied by an adult so that they can be assisted. Older children should trick-or-treat in groups to ensure safety.
Wear costumes that fit properly or ensure that costumes do not drag on the ground which may cause children to trip.
Ensure that any hats, scarves or ties are secure so that they will not impede children's vision.
Avoid props that are pointed or sharp such as swords or wands which may harm other children's eyes.
Obey all traffic laws, whether driving or walking.
At your own home, be sure your lawn, steps, porch and front door are well lit and free from obstacles.
A special note about cosmetics and contacts lenses
Wear hypoallergenic makeup. Have an adult apply the makeup and remove it with cold cream instead of soap. Use makeup in place of masks.
Cosmetic contacts that make your eyes look like cat’s eyes may seem like fun, especially at Halloween. However, these lenses come with the same risks as regular contact lenses. This growing fad may seem harmless, but it is not!
Improper use of cosmetic lenses can lead to serious eye complications. These problems include bacterial infections, swelling, eye pain, sensitivity to light, conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal scratches, corneal ulceration and even permanent loss of sight.
Never buy cosmetic contacts without a prescription! Never share your cosmetic contacts with others or use someone else’s contacts.
Since this fad is popular among teens, be vigilant about older kids’ appearance before letting them leave the house. If they are wearing these contacts, ask where they got them.