Halloween is a time for fun and creativity, but it is also important to keep safety in mind, especially when it comes to protecting your vision. Here are some tips to ensure you and your child have a safe and enjoyable Halloween:
Choose Safe Costumes
-
- Avoid Masks: Masks can obstruct vision, making it difficult to see obstacles or traffic. Instead, opt for makeup, especially if the person wearing the costume is someone who has limited vision.
- Check for Sharp Edges: Ensure that costume accessories like swords or wands are soft and flexible to prevent accidental eye injuries.
- Use Safe Makeup: Use makeup that is intended for your face and safe on your eyes.
- Hypoallergenic Products: Use hypoallergenic makeup to avoid allergic reactions that can affect the eyes.
- Avoid the Eye Area: Keep makeup away from the eyes to prevent irritation or infection. If makeup gets into the eyes, rinse immediately with water.
- Avoid Decorative Contact Lenses
- Listen to the Eye Care Professionals: According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eye infections are among the most common problems associated with these lenses.
- Say No to Bacteria! The FDA found that about 60% of colored contacts purchased online without a prescription contain harmful bacteria. These infections can lead to serious complications, including corneal abrasions, allergic reactions, and even irreversible vision loss.
Ensure Proper Lighting
-
- Carry a Light: Equip your child with a flashlight or glow sticks to improve visibility while trick-or-treating.
- Be Smart with Glow Sticks: Glow sticks are fun but use responsibly! While the chemicals are non-toxic, they contain chemicals which can be eye irritants and contain small bits of glass which could damage the delicate structures of the eye.
- Use Reflective Tape: Add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags to make sure drivers can see you and your child.
- Carry a Light: Equip your child with a flashlight or glow sticks to improve visibility while trick-or-treating.
Lastly, set a good example! Demonstrate safe practices yourself to reinforce the importance of eye safety. If you or someone you know is experiencing vision loss and could benefit from our services, please contact Future In Sight at [email protected] or 603-224-4039.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that Halloween remains a fun and safe experience for everyone.
Happy Halloween from all of us at Future In Sight!
About the Author: Beth Daisy, MS OTR/L, CLVT, ATP, CAPS is the Supervisor of Occupational Therapy at Future In Sight. She has certifications as a Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT), an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).