Portland, Ore.
The Oregon Poison Center at Oregon Health & Science University would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Halloween, and offers the following tips for trick-or-treaters and their families:- Wear brightly colored costumes made of flame-retardant materials. Use reflective tape on trick-or-treat bags.
- Carry a flashlight after dusk and watch for cars. Try to be home before dark.
- Accompany young children and limit trick-or-treating to familiar neighborhoods.
- Stay away from barking dogs or other upset animals.
- Check all treats before they are eaten.
- Throw away all unwrapped candy. Eat only those treats in original wrappers. Do not eat candy in wrappers that are faded, have holes or tears, or signs of rewrapping.
- Thoroughly check fruits and homemade goodies for foreign objects that may have been inserted or injected, such as pins, metal needles or razor blades. Cut fruits into sections to check for tampering.
- Be aware that some treats, especially chocolates, can be poisonous to pets.
- Watch for possible skin irritation, such as a rash or itching, from face makeup. If irritation occurs, remove the makeup immediately and thoroughly cleanse the area with soap and water.
- Use dry ice in punch bowls, but not in individual glasses. Frostbite can occur if skin comes into contact with dry ice.
- Keep candlelit jack-o-lanterns off doorsteps to avoid contact with children's costumes.
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