Halloween is just days away and the staff at the Nebraska Poison Center is preparing for a busy night of phone calls. Education Coordinator Jen Rohda says most of the calls they receive are related to glow sticks.
“Glow sticks can cause a burning or stinging sensation if the liquid gets in the mouth or eyes,” Rohda says. “Be watchful if children put these in their mouths as they are soft to chew on and can easily break open.”
If that happens she says rinse their mouths and eyes with water and call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. She also tells KLIN News they get several calls for children that have consumed cannabis products, especially edibles. “They tend to look like candy and candy on Halloween they could be mistaken for those edibles.”
Rohda is offering a variety of tips to keep kids safe this year. She says costumes should be warm, well-fitting and non-flammable. Masks should allow adequate vision and should be removed while children are crossing streets. “Make sure children are accompanied by an adult and take a flashlight along if it is dark.”
She also encourages trick-or-treaters to use nontoxic face paint as an alternative to masks. “All makeup and fluorescent hair sprays should be removed before going to bed.,” Rohda says. “Consider using reflective tape on costumes worn after dark.”
Rohda says drinks containing dry ice are not considered dangerous if the ice is not swallowed in its solid form. Small pieces should not be put in individual glasses. Frostbite can occur if dry ice touches the skin or mouth.
She also warns that chocolate and xylitol are very poisonous to dogs. “Xylitol is the sweetener found in sugar free candies and gum. Store all candy up and out of reach of dogs and other pets.” The Nebraska Poison Center is a free and confidential service to the public. You can call 1-800-222-1222 to speak with a Registered Nurse or Pharmacist 24 hours a day.