Eye Safety Tips for Halloween
Halloween is all about creativity, costumes, and a little bit of spooky fun, but it’s also a time when eye injuries can easily occur if we’re not careful. Whether you’re dressing up, decorating, or handing out treats - keeping your eyes safe from injuries ensures your night stays full of fun - not fright.
1. Novelty/Costume Contacts Lenses
Decorative contact lenses can add a dramatic touch to your costume, but non-prescription or unregulated lenses can be harmful for your eyes.
Only purchase costume contacts from a licensed eye care provider.
Never share contacts with others.
Always clean and store lenses properly.
Pro tip: Even one night of wearing unapproved lenses can cause infection or vision loss.
2. Avoid Sharp or Pointed Costume Accessories
Swords, wands, sticks, and other props may complete your look but can pose a danger to you or others, especially in dim lighting.
Choose soft, flexible materials instead of rigid or pointed props.
Teach kids to keep props pointed down and away from faces.
3. Masks
Masks are a Halloween favorite, but a mask that doesn’t fit well can cause eye problems and even safety risks.
Blocked or reduced vision: When a mask sits too low or has small eye openings, it can limit your peripheral vision which is your side vision and central vision, the part of your sight that helps you see objects directly in front of you.
Accidents and falls: Reduced vision can make it harder to see steps, curbs, or other people, especially in low light.
Eye strain or irritation: Masks that press too tightly around the eyes can cause discomfort or rubbing.
Pro Tip: Avoid poorly fit masks. Test your mask in a well-lit area before heading out. If you or your child can’t see clearly straight ahead or side-to-side, try adjusting the openings or use face paint instead.
4. Face Paint
Face paint is a fun, creative, and safer alternative to masks.
Use hypoallergenic, non-toxic face paint.
Avoid using paint near the eyes unless it’s labeled safe for that area.
5. Glow Sticks and Fake Blood
Glow sticks, fake blood, and other novelty items may contain chemicals that irritate or damage eyes.
If any liquid gets in the eye, rinse immediately with clean water and seek medical care.
6. Light Up the Night
Make sure everyone can See and be Seen. Good visibility helps prevent accidents.
Carry flashlights or wear reflective accessories.
Use glow-in-the-dark face paint or reflective tape on costumes to help others see you clearly.
7. Decoration Safety
When decorating your home, watch for hazards like hanging webs, pointed branches, or low-hanging items that could poke or scratch eyes.
8. Have a Plan for Emergencies
If you or someone in your group experiences eye pain, redness, or blurred vision after Halloween activities, contact an eye care professional right away.
Halloween should be full of fun and imagination not eye injuries. Treat your eyes with care, protect your vision, and enjoy a clear view of every moment.
Stay safe!
