The Florida Department of Health and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement have issued safety guidelines for families celebrating Halloween. The agencies are encouraging parents and guardians to remain alert while children participate in holiday activities.
According to officials, it is important for adults to monitor what children eat while trick-or-treating. Only factory-wrapped treats should be consumed, and anything homemade from strangers should be avoided. Parents are advised to inspect all candy for signs of tampering or choking hazards, noting concerns that illicit drug producers may target children with candy-colored pills. Products containing THC, CBD, or other cannabis-related substances that resemble gummies or chocolate should be kept secure and out of reach of children.
"If in doubt, throw it out!" the agencies stated.
Costume safety is also a focus this year. Officials warn against using decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and prescription from an eye care professional. "While the packaging on decorative lenses will often make claims such as 'one size fits all,' or 'no need to see an eye specialist,' obtaining decorative contact lenses without a prescription is both dangerous and illegal," the statement reads. Using these lenses can result in pain, inflammation, serious eye disorders, infections, or permanent vision loss.
Other recommendations include planning costumes that are bright and reflective by adding tape or striping for visibility. Shoes should fit well and costumes should be short enough to prevent tripping or entanglement. Children are discouraged from carrying sharp costume accessories like swords or sticks.
For neighborhood safety, residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Trick-or-treating in groups or attending organized events is recommended. Small children should always be accompanied by a trusted adult and taught not to approach vehicles belonging to strangers. Children under 12 years old should not be alone at night without supervision; older children who go out unsupervised should stick to well-lit areas and carry glow sticks or flashlights.
Homeowners handing out treats are asked to remove tripping hazards from porches and yards, check outdoor lighting, sweep wet leaves from walkways, and restrain pets during festivities.
Families opting not to trick-or-treat can still celebrate by carving pumpkins together—using markers for faces drawn by children—and displaying them safely with flashlights instead of candles when possible. Other suggested activities include organizing Halloween scavenger hunts around decorated neighborhoods.
The Florida Department of Health is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and works through state, county, and community partnerships to protect health across Florida.
More information about their programs can be found at www.FloridaHealth.gov.