Halloween is here, and Parkland Health urges families to prioritize safety during festivities. Trick-or-treating is fun, but precautions are essential.
With the opioid crisis ongoing, parents should be cautious about candy consumption. Fentanyl, a deadly opioid, can appear in edible treats.
Courtney Edwards of Parkland Health emphasizes visibility. “We wear costumes that are usually dark and gory,” she said. “It is easy to get caught in shadows.”
Using flashlights or illuminators helps drivers see pedestrians. “When it’s dark, you can hide easier in shadows, which increases accident risk,” Edwards said.
Homeowners and apartment managers should keep pathways clear and well-lit. “We get cases of broken legs or ankles,” Edwards noted. “Lighting is very important.”
Traveling in groups is another key safety measure. “Stay with your friends. If something feels uncomfortable, leave,” Edwards said.
Parents should maintain open conversations about drugs and alcohol. A pass phrase or code can signal when a child wants to leave a situation safely.
Fentanyl can appear in pills, candy, or other substances. It is cheap, easily manufactured, and may cause respiratory failure.
Signs of fentanyl overdose include blue lips, gray skin, drowsiness, and lack of oxygen. Immediate intervention with naloxone can save lives.
Parkland’s North Texas Poison Center educates schools and communities about opioid safety. “We provide reliable and factual information to help prevent overdoses,” Edwards said.
Halloween safety tips:
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Trick-or-treat with trusted friends or family
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Stay visible using flashlights or reflective clothing
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Avoid any unattended or suspicious items
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Report or dispose of tampered candy
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Discuss drug safety openly with teens and children
By staying vigilant and following safety guidelines, families can enjoy a fun and safe Halloween.
