Don't Lose Sight of Halloween Safety

False lenses, sharp props can make fright night scarier for all, eye group warns

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SATURDAY, Oct. 25 (HealthDay News) -- Prevent Blindness America reminds everyone that a happy Halloween should be a safe one when it comes to your eyes.

"Halloween can be one of the most enjoyable times of the year, as long as we all remember that safety is the key to a wonderful holiday," President and CEO Hugh R. Parry said in a news release from the volunteer eye health and safety organization. "Everything from having an open flame in a jack-o-lantern to wearing a mask that distorts our vision can turn a festive evening into a terrible accident."

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When it comes to protecting the eyes of trick-or-treaters and revelers, Prevent Blindness America offers these recommendations:

• Avoid costumes that could block vision such as some masks, wigs, hats or eye patches.
• Use hypoallergenic or non-toxic make-up. Only adults should apply make-up to children. To remove it, use cold cream or eye make-up remover instead of soap.
• Use false eyelashes according to the manufacturer's instructions on the package.
• Avoid props or accessories with sharp edges or pointed ends such as pitchforks, spears, knives, swords or wands.
• Never use non-prescription contact lenses to change their eye color or even give the illusion of cat's eyes. Without a prescription, these are illegal to purchase whether the lens are corrective or not. Improper use of contacts can lead to eye infections, corneal injuries and even vision loss.
• When trick-or-treating, always wear bright, reflective clothing or decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape/patches. Carry a bright flashlight to improve visibility.

More information

The Prevent Blindness America has more about contact lens safety.

-- Kevin McKeever