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Helpful Halloween tips from Baptist Health Paducah

October 30, 2019

With its costumed trick-or-treaters, seasonal decorations, and spooky festivities, Halloween has become a favorite holiday.

With its costumed trick-or-treaters, seasonal decorations, and spooky festivities, Halloween has become a favorite holiday. To make sure your little goblins have a happy and healthy holiday, there are some safety measures to keep in mind.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every day approximately 8,000 children are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fall-related injuries. And during Halloween, fall hazards such as darkened streets and sidewalks, can lead to costumed children of all ages taking a tumble.

“Falls are one of the most common causes of injuries,” said Dr. Allison Rains, an Emergency department physician at Baptist Health Paducah. “Beware of masks that significantly limit peripheral vision which can lead to falls and increases risk in roadways. Drivers also need to take extra caution this time of year, as the number of children hit by cars spikes significantly during Halloween.”

For children, candy is one of the highlights of Halloween. While it’s not easy to avoid these sweet treats, keep in mind the health risks associated with certain ingredients.

“Beware of allergies and potential exposures with candies,” Dr. Rains said. “Children with severe reactions should carry an EpiPen when out and about. And people handing out candy should be considerate of common allergens such as peanuts.”

The good news? With a few precautions, your family can have a happy and safe Halloween.

Here are some more safety tips from Dr. Rains:

  • Make sure costumes fit well with no dragging parts.

  • Trick or treat with a group and with at least one adult chaperone.

  • Limit road crossings. Use sidewalks and cover one side of the road before crossing to the other.

  • Only trick-or-treat during designated times or at contained events, like trunk-or-treat.

  • Don't use any real flames on candles or in jack-o’-lanterns around costumes.

  • Beware of sharp objects. All costume additions should be safe in nature to avoid injury. 

  • Parents need to inspect all candy for intact packages and to make sure they haven't been tampered with. Also, parents need to limit candy consumption to a reasonable amount.