Halloween is a time of excitement and fun, but it also presents unique safety challenges, particularly for the state’s poison control center. Amidst all the festivities, it’s important to remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of your loved ones.
Let’s explore some essential Halloween safety tips to keep in mind:
Accidental Poisoning Cases:
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Marijuana Edibles: A toddler experienced a seizure after accidentally ingesting an unknown amount of marijuana edibles.
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Grandmother’s Edibles: A four-year-old child unknowingly ingested marijuana edibles found in their grandmother’s purse, leading to unusual tiredness and instability. The child required 24-hour hospitalization.
While it’s highly unlikely that people would intentionally distribute marijuana edibles to children on Halloween, the risk lies in children accidentally finding and consuming these edibles, mistaking them for regular Halloween candy. To prevent accidental exposure to edibles, ensure they are locked up and kept out of sight and reach of children and pets.
Halloween is a time filled with thrilling activities, but amidst the excitement, we must remain cautious, as potential poisons can be found in everyday environments. Any product, whether legal or illegal, can be poisonous if used incorrectly, in the wrong dose, or by the wrong person.
Common Halloween-related mishaps and accidents related to potential poisons go beyond concerns about tampered candy. The New Jersey Poison Control Center receives calls about various issues, including glow sticks, face paint, allergic reactions, food poisoning, marijuana edibles, chemical burns, and alcohol poisoning. The risks are not limited to children and pets; they can affect anyone.
Here are some safety tips to ensure a fun and safe Halloween:
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Treat marijuana edibles like medicine: Keep them locked up and out of sight to prevent accidental ingestion by children and pets.
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Monitor alcoholic beverages: Ensure children and pets do not have access to alcoholic beverages, as even small amounts can cause severe health issues. Recognize the signs of alcohol poisoning.
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Protect pets: Keep candies, chocolates, and other Halloween items out of reach of pets. Chocolate, cocoa, candy, and sugarless products can be toxic to pets. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can also cause severe illness in pets.
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Contact your local poison control center: If you suspect someone has come into contact with a dangerous product or substance, don’t hesitate to contact your local poison control center for guidance. They are available 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222.
Safety should always be a priority during Halloween celebrations. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Halloween is both enjoyable and safe for all family members, including your pets.
