West Palm Beach, FL – Halloween is tonight corner, and kids are excited to dress up, gather candy, and enjoy a fun-filled night. As we gear up for trick-or-treating, Palm Beach Children’s Hospital at St. Mary’s Medical Center and West Boca Medical Center, both with dedicated pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), want to remind families about Halloween safety to ensure a safe holiday for everyone.

“Halloween is a fantastic time for families, but safety should always come first,” said Dr. Anne Fischer, Chair of Pediatric Surgery at Palm Beach Children’s Hospital. “From costumes to candy, simple steps can make a huge difference in ensuring kids stay safe while enjoying their night.”

To make the night as safe as possible, the Palm Beach Health Network shares 10 important safety tips for parents and trick-or-treaters:

1. Choose Face Paint Over Masks– Masks can block vision, increasing the chance of falls. Opt for non-toxic face paint and test it first for allergies.
2. Street Smarts– Encourage kids to cross streets at crosswalks and look both ways. Keep young children close, and make eye contact with drivers when crossing.
3. Be Aware of Candy Ingredients– Many candies contain allergens like peanuts or dairy. Always check candy labels, especially if your child has food allergies.
4. Keep Hands Clean– Remind kids to wash their hands before eating candy to reduce the risk of germs.
5. Enhance Visibility– Use reflective tape or glow sticks on costumes and treat bags. Equip children with flashlights to stay visible in the dark.
6. Avoid Decorative Contact Lenses– Non-prescription costume lenses can cause serious eye injuries. They’re best avoided for a safe Halloween experience.
7. Stay Alert and Limit Device Use– Post those fun Halloween photos after getting home. Keeping devices away helps everyone stay alert on the streets.
8. Look for Porch Lights– Only visit homes with lights on, as a dark house may signal non-participation or early bedtime.
9. Practice Stranger Safety– Remind kids never to enter a stranger’s car or home, even on Halloween.
10. Set a Trick-or-Treat Plan– For older kids going on their own, agree on a route and set a curfew. Sticking to familiar streets can help everyone stay safe.

Parents are encouraged to set candy limits to prevent sugar overload. “Two pieces a day after meals is a great starting point,” Dr. Fischer suggested. “Setting these boundaries helps children enjoy their treats while managing sugar intake.”

Halloween can be a wonderful time for families, and Palm Beach Health Network wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween! For more safety tips and resources, visit palmbeachhealthnetwork.com.