Costumes Tips for Children and Adults:

  • You should only purchase costumes that are made of flame retardant material. The federal Flammable Fabrics Act (FFA) requires costumes sold at retail to be flame-resistant.
  • If they are homemade, make sure you use fabrics that are inherently flame resistant, such as nylon and polyester.
  • Try to work  reflector strips into your child’s costume, a flash light or light stick to make them more visible at night. This will make them more visible by drivers and you can keep an eye on them as well if they get ahead of you while out trick or treating.
  • Make sure that the costume fits properly to avoid any accidents like tripping over a long dress or cape. Make sure that it is comfortable since it will probably be worn for several hours. Do not include high heel shoes or long dangling pieces of costume that could be tripped over. A scraped knee or bloody nose can really ruin the fun.
  • If they are carrying a prop such as a scythe or sword, make sure they are made out of a flexible plastic that will bend if fallen on.
  • Pre-test any costume makeup by applying a small amount on the arm of the person who will be wearing it for about thirty minutes a couple of days in advance. If a rash, redness, swelling, or any other signs of irritation develop where the makeup was applied, it could be a sign of a possible allergy or adverse reaction.
  • For masks, make sure that the eye holes are big enough to see not only in front but peripherally as well. You may have to cut them open further yourself. If so, use some black or gray grease paint around the eye socket to cover skin.
  • Purchasing contacts without a prescription in the United States is illegal. While contacts can really be the cherry-on-top for a costume, be safe rather than sorry and get a cosmetic contact prescription from a doctor. If you don’t, it could cause irreparable damage to your eyes.

Safety Tips:

  • If your Halloween will have more alcohol than candy, be sure to either have a designated driver or call an Uber or taxi (and in College Station – Carpool). Halloween is in the top three days of major car-related crashes and it’s nobody’s night of fun should turn into tragedy. There are codes for free rides with Uber and a few bucks with a taxi is a far better investment than a DWI or worse.
  • Don’t get alcohol poisoning. For every alcoholic beverage, drink one glass of water. Eat beforehand – protein is actually better than carbs.
  • Charge your phone. If you’re with a group, make sure that you can contact them if you get split up.
  • If trick-or-treating, go in neighborhoods that you are familiar with. Check candy before eating.