Halloween brings excitement for children, but it also comes with certain health and safety risks. Elizabeth Burcham, PA-C, from AdventHealth Medical Group Ear, Nose and Throat at Parker Clinic, has outlined key concerns for parents to consider during the holiday.
Choking hazards are a major worry. “Hard candies, nuts, gum, and small toys can easily become choking hazards,” Burcham explains. She advises that children under four should not be given small or hard foods like candy or popcorn. After age four, these foods may be introduced depending on the child’s ability to chew safely. She also suggests keeping a LifeVac device at home as an added precaution.
Button batteries present another risk. These small batteries are found in light-up toys and decorations commonly used during Halloween. “These can cause severe internal burns within just two hours,” warns Burcham. “Do not wait for symptoms to appear and never induce vomiting.” If a child is suspected of swallowing a button battery, immediate emergency medical care is necessary.
Children sometimes insert foreign objects into their noses or ears out of curiosity. “We often see children who have put candy, beads, or small costume pieces in their ears or noses,” says Burcham. Parents are advised not to attempt removal themselves but instead seek help from an ENT specialist to avoid further injury.
Loud Halloween events such as parties and haunted houses can pose hearing risks for all ages. “Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing loss,” Burcham cautions. She recommends using earplugs at loud events.
Foreign objects are among the most common reasons children visit the ENT clinic or emergency room around Halloween according to Burcham: “If you suspect your child has something in their ear or nose, see an ENT right away,” she advises. Water beads—small sensory toys that expand when wet—are especially dangerous if swallowed because they can block airways: “If swallowed, they can grow in the esophagus or trachea, blocking a child’s airway,” Burcham says. “Never have these in your home.”
Burcham emphasizes checking all backpacks and bags before allowing children to eat any treats: “Always check your child’s backpacks, bags, and candy before they eat anything,” she urges.
She also stresses teaching safety habits early: “I tell my kids not to eat any candy until it’s been checked by an adult they trust,” she says.
Her final message focuses on vigilance: “There are so many things that can harm kids that we don’t even think about,” she says. “Even well-meaning gifts or treats can pose a danger. Always check everything your child brings home.” She adds: “Always win this fight with your kids. You’ll never regret protecting your child, or someone else’s.”
AdventHealth Orlando is located in Orlando, Florida and was founded in 1908; it serves as both a pediatric ward and training hospital under current president Terry Shaw.
For more information about AdventHealth Medical Group Ear, Nose and Throat at Parker Clinic visit this link: https://www.adventhealth.com/practice/adventhealth-medical-group-ear-nose-and-throat-parker-clinic/our-services/pediatric-ent-care
To schedule an appointment with Elizabeth Burcham visit here: https://www.adventhealth.com/practice/adventhealth-medical-group-ear-nose-and-throat-parker-clinic/elizabeth-burcham-pa-c
