Health Department encourages safe trick or treating 

SANTA FE – This Halloween, Friday, Oct. 31, putting safety and health first will help make trick or treating a great memory for all good ghouls.  

The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) Office of Oral Health recommends: 

• Healthy dinners before Halloween festivities. 
• Do not overindulge on the treat consumption. 
• Drink water – it helps wash away food particles and reduce acidity caused by sugary treats. 
• Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly, especially before bed.  

  

 As for costumes, remember, one size does not fit all:  

• Make sure you and those with you can see clearly through your masks and your costume fits well to prevent trips and falls.  
• Facepainting is a great mask alternative but consider putting a small bit of makeup on the arm to test for an allergic reaction before putting it on a child’s face.  
• Decorative contact lenses without an eye doctor’s prescription are not a good fit. Avoid store-bought lenses to prevent increased chances of eye scratches, sores or infections. 

 

When trick or treating: 

• Always have an adult accompany young children. 
• Encourage older children to trick or treat in groups. 
• Use flashlights or glow sticks to see and be seen.  
• Reflective tape or strips on costumes can help in the dark.  
• Stay on sidewalks if possible – and look both ways before crossing the street.  

 

 For more Halloween health and safety tips, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website.