Halloween Safety Starts Before the First Trick-or-Treater Arrives

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Glow sticks, face paint, and light-up toys are part of Halloween fun, but they can also lead to unexpected exposures. Before celebrations begin, the Upstate New York Poison Center encourages families to check these products and supervise young children using them.

“Halloween can get busy, so it helps to take a quick look around before the fun starts,” said Amy Hoffman-James, a poison prevention educator at the Upstate New York Poison Center. “Put medicines where children can’t reach them and keep an eye on little ones around glow sticks and light-up toys. If something happens, give us a call. We’re here to help you figure out what to do next.”

A few checks before Halloween festivities begin:

• Keep glow products out of mouths. Supervise children using glow sticks and other glow accessories. If one breaks and someone gets the liquid in their mouth or eyes, call the Poison Center for advice.
• Check face paint before applying it. Throw away expired makeup or products with an unusual odor. Test face paint on a small patch of skin before use, especially on children. Follow label directions and keep products away from the eyes unless specifically intended for that area.
• Secure button batteries in light-up toys and decorations. Make sure battery compartments are secure and keep loose button batteries away from children. If you think a child swallowed one, seek emergency medical care immediately.
• Put medicines away before guests arrive. Keep prescription medicines, non-prescription medicines, and vitamins out of sight and reach of children. Ask guests to place purses and bags up high and off the floor.
• Keep cannabis and alcohol out of reach. Store cannabis edibles securely, preferably in a locked location. Keep alcoholic drinks out of sight and reach of children, and clear away unattended drinks.

If a possible poisoning occurs, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Call the Upstate New York Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. Experts are available free of charge, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Source: Upstate New York Poison Center news release, Oct. 26, 2026.