Halloween Costume Safety

Ghouls and goblins aren’t the only dangers to children this Halloween. Costumes and accessories can also be hazardous to young revelers.

Whether bought at the store or made at home, Halloween costumes can pose hidden threats to children. For instance, simple face masks can limit or block eyesight; non-toxic makeup can be a safer alternative, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

For a trick-free night, Michael Mitchell, MD, assistant professor of emergency medicine at Brenner Children’s Hospital, part of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, offers these additional safety tips:

  • Costumes should be bright and reflective - adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and candy bags increases visibility.
  • Swords, knives and similar accessories should be short, soft and flexible.
  • Costumes should be short enough to prevent tripping.
  • Wear comfortable and properly fitting shoes.
  • Costumes, wigs and accessories should be visibly labeled as flame resistant.