Kurzban Kurzban Tetzeli & Pratt | Attorneys At Law

Dangerous products can make Halloween scarier this year

On Behalf of | Oct 31, 2011 | Products Liability |

It’s that time of year again when kids and adults alike change their identities. Some become princesses while others become zombies. Whatever the costume, Halloween is a time typically associated with candy, fun and games.

But some of the fun products used on Halloween could potentially be dangerous products and cause personal injury. But several federal agencies, including the FDA and Consumer Product Safety Commission, have offered suggestions for parents to help make this Halloween a memorable holiday.

Halloween would not be complete without a great costume. Parents are encouraged to look for costumes that are flame-resistant. Brightly colored costumes can help protect kids from being struck on the street; even using reflective tape can help increase visibility for drivers on the road.

Products that are applied directly onto a person, such as Halloween make-up or novelty contacts, can cause serious health problems. Some make-up can cause skin rashes or swelling. Novelty contacts can be harmful to the eye if they are not prescribed by a professional. Being aware of these potential issues beforehand can help prevent injury tonight.

Halloween enthusiasts should also be cautious about certain food and beverage products. If candy or drinks have been tampered with or have not been properly sealed, consumers run the risk of getting sick from the food. Even bobbing for apples can expose people to potentially harmful bacteria.

Halloween comes around once a year and it should be a fun holiday for all. Being aware of some of the potential, though sometimes less obvious, dangers can help reduce the risk of injury. Being spooked by a friend in a scary mask can be startling, but getting seriously hurt or ill can be even more frightening.

Source: USA Today: “Experts offer ‘lucky 13’ tips for safe and healthy Halloween,” Mary Elizabeth Dallas, Oct. 31, 2011

Categories

Archives

FindLaw Network