Halloween is fun for children all dressed up in costumes, but it’s important to protect their eyes, as well as themselves.

The celebrations can also be a chance to give out healthy snacks, get some physical activity, and focus on safety.

Check out these tips from the Centre for Disease Control to help make the festivities fun and safe for trick-or-treaters and party guests.

Going trick-or-treating? Have a SAFE HALLOWEEN!

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Swords, knives, and other costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible, as they can be hazards to peoples’ eyes. Always be alert when around people with them, and if you’re carrying them, be careful you’re not in a position to poke someone in the eye.

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Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult, as it’s better to been SEEN in groups.

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Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers SEE you. Vision can be hampered in the dark, or by rain or fog, so make sure you can see others, and drivers and other costumed-folk can see you.

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Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats and WATCH what kinds of candy they’re consuming.

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Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you SEE and others SEE you. Walk, don’t run from house to house.

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Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and EYE irritation, as it can be painful if left overnight.

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LOOK both ways before crossing the street. Use crosswalks wherever possible.

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Lower your risk for serious EYE injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

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Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe. Many vehicles may have trouble SEEING children, especially if they are dressed in dark costumes.

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Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked VISION, which an cause trips, falls and injuries.

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Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.

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Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses where you can be SEEN. Never accept rides from strangers.

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Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Expecting trick-or-treaters or party guests?

Follow these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for everyone:

  • Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as low-calorie treats and drinks. For guests, offer a variety of fruits and vegetables.
  • Use party games and trick-or-treat time as an opportunity for kids to get their daily dose of 60 minutes of physical activity.
  • Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles that could cause someone to fall.
  • Keep candle-lit jack o’lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways, landings, and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
  • Remind drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters and to drive safely.