Halloween Safety Tips

Trick-or-treaters and parents should remember that visibility increases safety.  Studies have shown that a child’s risk of injury or death as a result of being hit by a car doubles around Halloween.  Following are some Halloween safety tips from the American Optometric Association:

Incorporate these simple precautions into the evening’s festivities to ensure Halloween safety:

• Dress children in light-colored costumes or adhere reflective tape to the costume’s fabric and accessories. Make sure everyone is visible to passing cars.

• Eliminate masks from among the costume’s accessories. Masks can get in the way of clear vision and can increase the chances of tripping or running into objects.

• Hypoallergenic make-up is a safer alternative. Take care in keeping make-up away from the eyes.

• No trick-or-treater should go in search of treats alone. Adults should always accompany children on their candy quests.

• Approach only doorsteps that have a porch light lit. Similarly, if you plan to pass out treats, be sure to turn on your light.

• Pedestrians think they are more visible to drivers than they actually are, so remind trick-or-treaters to look both ways before crossing streets and to stay with the group.

• If cosmetic contact lenses are part of your costume, make sure you obtain them from your doctor of optometry to ensure that the lenses that fit your eyes properly, and to learn ways to care for them.