Halloween Eye Safety Tips for Kids

October is synonymous with Halloween and pumpkin pie. If your kids love dressing up for Halloween, you should put measures in place to ensure their safety.

Over the years, many eye injuries related to Halloween costumes and activities have been reported. Here are Halloween eye safety tips for kids. 

Safe Halloween Costumes

Choosing the right Halloween costume is one of the highlights of the day. Safety is crucial when buying or making costumes for your kids to avoid harming them or others. Avoid those that have pointed or sharp accessories or edges. 

Choose costumes and accessories made of safe and flexible materials. Items such as wigs or masks that block the eyes or affect side vision can be harmful. 

Avoid Pointed Props 

Carrying props is part of the fun, but some of the items can prove to be dangerous. Avoid breakable, pointy, or sharp objects when choosing toy swords, light sabers, or wands. An object that seems harmless can cause serious harm if it comes into contact with the eyes. 

Younger children or toddlers should not be allowed to carry any items that can injure their eyes. Walking in a costume while holding a prop can cause balance issues. 

Avoid Fake Contacts

Children should not be allowed to wear fake or decorative contacts. The lenses are not usually safe and can cause serious eye issues. 

Risks associated with decorative contacts include eye pain, allergic reactions, infections, and corneal abrasion. In some severe cases, they can cause blindness. Children and adults should avoid wearing contacts not prescribed by an eye doctor. 

Wearing Makeup Safely 

Makeup helps complete the Halloween atmosphere, but you should be careful before painting your child’s face. Choose the right products and apply the makeup carefully. Avoid the eye area, and remember that if makeup runs, it can get into the eyes. 

Do not apply glitter on the eyelids or eyebrows. Choose hypoallergenic products to ensure safety, or better yet, choose a mask. Carry a wet towel or washcloth to wipe off any running makeup. 

Ensure Visibility

Good visibility is vital when your child is out trick-or-treating. If the costume comes with a mask, ensure it does not impair the child’s vision. You can alter it to ensure that the eyeholes are large enough. 

Enhanced visibility includes being visible to others, especially to cars. Choose reflective or bright-colored costumes, or carry glow sticks at night. Remember to bring a flashlight when walking in areas with steps or dark streets.  

Ensure that Halloween is fun for your kids by protecting their eyes. The day will be successful if everyone returns home safely with no injuries. Sharp objects can result in severe eye scarring or irreversible vision damage. Remember, the children are likely to be full of excitement and energy, and something can go wrong very fast. Stay with your younger kids, and do not allow them to get out of your sight.

For more on Halloween eye safety tips for kids, visit Cobb Corner Eye Care at our Stoughton, Massachusetts office. Call (781) 344-3335 to schedule an appointment today.