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Published on October 29, 2025

Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Halloween for All AgesHalloween 2025

Costumes, candy, carving pumpkins--Halloween is a favorite holiday for many wanting to embrace the fall season! While it's a much anticipated night, the excitement can sometimes lead to unexpected bumps, scrapes, and urgent care surprises. Learn these tricks and tips for a healthy Halloween for all ages with Vondra Brimage, DO, with Cone Health Urgent Care at MedCenter Mebane, in this WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation.

What are the biggest risks to me and my kids?

When you think of Halloween hazards, costumes and candy come to mind, but Dr. Brimage notes several easily overlooked risks that bring patients into Urgent Care:

  • Trip and Fall Hazards: Costumes that are too long, uneven sidewalks, or distractions (like using a cell phone while walking) can easily lead to sprained ankles and other injuries.

  • Minor Cuts and Burns: Pumpkin carving (especially when kids handle the knives) and real flames from candles inside pumpkins can cause cuts and minor burns. Pro-Tip: Use battery-powered candles!

  • Eye Injuries: Glittery eye makeup can scratch the cornea if rubbed into the eye, and the waving of costume accessories like wands and swords can lead to pokes and eye injuries.

  • Dehydration: Kids and adults can run around for hours in costumes, easily getting overheated and dehydrated, even in cooler weather.

How can I avoid incidents?

Hazard Prevention Tip Home Care/Next Step
Costume Fit Ensure costumes fit properly; they should not block vision or be too long (to prevent tripping). Add reflective tape or glow sticks for visibility at night. Check your local Urgent Care if an injury (like a sprain) has significant swelling, bruising, or loss of motion.
Eye Makeup Apply glittery makeup at least one centimeter to an inch away from the eye area to reduce the chance of rubbing it directly in. If an abrasion occurs, seek health care to ensure proper healing.
Pumpkin Carving Adults should handle all the cutting; kids can focus on the design and scooping. For minor cuts, wash the wound with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover with a clean bandage.
Twisted Ankles Be mindful of where you're walking. Avoid distractions like cell phones while trick-or-treating. Apply the RICE Method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

What can I do to keep trick-or-treaters safe?

Trick-or-treating goes hand-in-hand with candy, but this is often where food allergy and stomachaches arise.

  • Read Labels: Candy can be processed with common allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten. Always turn over the packaging and read the ingredients, or ask the treat maker about potential cross-contamination.

  • Recognize Severe Reactions: Swelling, trouble breathing, hives, or rash after ingesting food requires immediate attention. Use an EpiPen (if available) and call 911.

  • The Teal Pumpkin Project: To include all children, consider using teal pumpkins to signal that you are offering non-edible treats like stickers, bracelets, glow sticks, and small toys.

I overindulged. Now what?

How much candy is too much? The answer is less about an exact number and more about the outcome. Overindulgence can lead to stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea in both kids and adults.

  • Home Care: Focus on hydration to flush out excess sugar. Stick to bland foods (rice, toast, bananas) for at least 24 hours.

  • When to Seek Help: If vomiting or diarrhea is lasting more than 24 hours, or if you notice signs of severe dehydration (not making enough saliva, reduced urination), it's time to see a health care professional at an Urgent Care center.

What do I need in a First Aid Kit?

Be prepared for the unexpected with Cone Health Community Pharmacy! Keep a well-stocked First Aid Kit handy and check expiration dates before you need it. Dr. Brimage recommends including:

  • Adhesive Bandages (various sizes)

  • Sterile Gauze and Medical Tape

  • Antiseptic Wipes and Antibiotic Ointment

  • Instant Cold Pack

  • Tweezers and Scissors

  • Elastic Bandage (ACE Wrap) (for sprains)

  • Eye Wash

  • Age-appropriate Pain Relievers (Tylenol/Motrin)

  • Hydrocortisone Cream (for skin irritation/rashes)

Final Safety Thoughts

  • Drivers: Be vigilant! Halloween is unpredictable, with kids often running back and forth without looking. Expect the unexpected.

  • Homeowners: Keep your sidewalks clear and well-lit to prevent trips and falls.

With a few thoughtful precautions, you can ensure your Halloween is full of creativity, fun, and happy memories!

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