News Release
October 19, 2006
Contact: Jane Shaskan, 860-679-4777
e-mail: shaskan@nso.uchc.edu
Halloween Primer for Parents
Connecticut Poison Control Tips to Keep Your Goblins Safe
FARMINGTON, CONN. – Halloween is just around the corner with its
mystical potions, bubbling brews, and costumed youngsters looking
for treats. Experts at the Connecticut Poison Control Center at
UConn Health Center have tips for parents and those in charge of
getting kids ready for the big night.
- Make-up and Hair – Commercially available Halloween make-up kits are the best
choice. Substitutes like shoe polish, inks and felt tipped markers may contain
solvents or dyes that may irritate skin and could be harmful if ingested.
Eyelash adhesive is the only glue safe for facial use. Avoid using glitter on
the face, especially near the eyes, where it can make the eyes vulnerable to
scratches.
- Ornaments and Decorations – Most colors used in paper and cardboard construction
materials and watercolors for decorating glass windows are non-toxic. Use paper
liquid glues and glue sticks and stay away from adhesives such as model cement,
epoxy and super-glues that contain resins and solvents that may be irritating to
the eyes, skin and internal organs if swallowed.
- Accessories – Be sure kids don’t bite or chew, and accidentally swallow,
batteries found in dry cell flashlights, pen-lights or toys. These batteries
contain carbon-zinc, alkaline chemicals or mercury and can cause chemical burns
or internal complications. “Glow lights” in self contained phosphorescent
packets, sticks or jewelry are composed of safer materials and a better choice.
- Dry ice – It’s okay in a punch bowl for “witch’s brew” and on the ground for
“fog effect.” But, be careful that it doesn’t end up in anyone’s glass, or that
it comes in contact with the skin where it can cause frostbite “burns” and skin
injury.
“Kids love Halloween – it’s the second most popular annual holiday.
We urge parents to accompany their children, check their treats, and
stay local,” says Bernard Sangalli, Connecticut Poison Control
Center administrative director.
“The poison center is a 24-7 operation,” says Kathy Broderick,
certified poison information specialist. “If you suspect a
poisoning, don’t hesitate. Call us. We’re here to help.” To reach the Connecticut Poison Control Center, call 1-800-222-1222.
The University of Connecticut Health Center includes the schools of
medicine and dental medicine, John Dempsey Hospital, the UConn Medical
Group and University Dentists. Founded in 1961, the Health Center
pursues a mission of providing outstanding health care education in an
environment of exemplary patient care, research and public service. To
learn more about the UConn Health Center, visit our website at
www.uchc.edu.
Note: News professionals are invited to visit the Office of
Communications homepage at
www.uchc.edu/ocomm/ for archived news releases and other
information.
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