RELEASE: Health Department encourages safe trick or treating

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 29, 2025

Health Department encourages safe trick or treating

SANTA FE – This Halloween, Friday, Oct. 31, putting safety and health first will help make trick or treating a great memory for all good ghouls.

The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) Office of Oral Health recommends:

Healthy dinners before Halloween festivities.

Do not overindulge on the treat consumption.

Drink water – it helps wash away food particles and reduce acidity caused by sugary treats.

Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly, especially before bed.

As for costumes, remember, one size does not fit all:

Make sure you and those with you can see clearly through your masks and your costume fits well to prevent trips and falls.

Facepainting is a great mask alternative but consider putting a small bit of makeup on the arm to test for an allergic reaction before putting it on a child’s face.

Decorative contact lenses without an eye doctor’s prescription are not a good fit. Avoid store-bought lenses to prevent increased chances of eye scratches, sores or infections.

When trick or treating:

Always have an adult accompany young children.

Encourage older children to trick or treat in groups.

Use flashlights or glow sticks to see and be seen.

Reflective tape or strips on costumes can help in the dark.

Stay on sidewalks if possible – and look both ways before crossing the street.

For more Halloween health and safety tips, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website .

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NMDOH

David Morgan, Public Information Officer. | david.morgan@doh.nm.gov | (575) 649-0754

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) works to promote health and wellness, improve health outcomes, and deliver services to all New Mexicans. As New Mexico’s largest state agency, NMDOH offers public health services in all 33 counties and collaborates with 24 Native American Tribes, Pueblos and Nations.

New Mexico Department of Health | 1190 S St Francis Dr | Santa Fe, NM 87505 US

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