Release Date: October 27, 2008
Contact: Christine Patmon, Metro Health Public Relations Manager, 207-8638
Protect Your Health and Practice Safety this Halloween
Metro Health provides tips for everyone participating in trick-or-treat activities
Trick-or-treaters, parents, and residents and businesses supplying the treats are encouraged to keep good health practices in mind and put safety first as they celebrate Halloween.
With nearly $2.3 billion in seasonal candy sales projected this year by the National Confectioners Association, the high and widespread consumption of sweets raises public health concerns in a community challenged with obesity, diabetes and poor youth dental health. In addition, since Halloween takes place on a Friday this year, more youngsters will likely be out later than usual.
The Metro Health team offers these health and safety tips for all involved:
Purchase or make costumes made of flame-retardant material and avoid lengthy pants or dresses that could pose a tripping hazard.
Wear bright, reflective costumes or decorate them and trick-or-treat bags with reflective tape or patches.
Carry a flashlight to increase visibility and light your pathway.
Do not wear costume accessories or masks that could hinder vision, including cosmetic contacts. (Note: It is illegal to purchase ANY contact lens without a prescription. Improper use of contacts can lead to eye infections, injuries or blindness.)
Avoid costume accessories with sharp or pointed ends such as knives, pitchforks or wands.
Parents should join their children as they trick-or-treat, not only for their safety but to enjoy the exercise as well. After Halloween, make a walk through the neighborhood a daily routine to improve or maintain your health.
Teach children to visit only familiar homes that have the porch light on.
Trick-or-treaters should be careful crossing streets and drivers should keep an eye out for them.
Avoid unfamiliar and stray animals.
Residents and businesses should remove all tripping hazards from porches, sidewalks and entry ways.
Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as individual packs of raisins, trail mix or pretzels.
Consider non-edible alternatives such as stickers, party favors or fun pencils and erasers.
Parents should carefully examine all treats for signs of tampering BEFORE allowing your child to eat them. If you question an item’s safety, throw it away.
Pay particular attention to young children as they eat their treats, especially items that could present a choking hazard.
Keep allergies and health conditions in mind and remove items containing ingredients that could be harmful to your child.
Just as with food – think portion size. Make an agreement with your child as to how much candy they will be allowed to eat at a time and when.
Remind your child to brush and floss after eating sugary treats to avoid cavities.
Plan other fun activities for your child if diabetes is a concern and access to candy would be a health risk.
For more information about Metro Health and its programs and services to address obesity, diabetes and dental health, visit www.sanantonio.gov/health.
