“If you suspect your child has eaten anything he shouldn’t, call your local poison control center or go to the emergency room immediately.” Although candy tampering is rare, parents should always inspect their children’s candy before allowing them to eat any of it. Kids should only eat treats in their original, unopened wrappers. A common rule of thumb; when it doubt, throw it out. Halloween is also a time for adult parties. According to Woods, it’s important that parents clean up quickly after a holiday bash, because party leftovers can be tempting and dangerous for kids. “Small children may try to eat leftover cigarette butts or even sample the remains of alcoholic drinks left in glasses. Removing these temptations could save a life,” said Woods. Children ages 6 and younger make up the majority of all poison exposures, and more than 90 percent of all poison exposures happen at home, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Children are at considerably greater risk for accidental poisonings because they are smaller, have faster metabolic rates and their bodies are less capable of handling toxic chemicals,” said Woods. SAH has some Halloween Poison Prevention tips: Check all candy before it is eaten and only let kids eat treats that are in their original, unopened wrappers; store medications and vitamins in a cabinet that is out-of-reach so children won’t mistake them for candy; Remember that glow sticks and necklaces can be harmful if chewed or eaten; Watch for skin irritation from makeup and face paint. Should a rash occur, thoroughly cleanse the area with soap and water; Keep candy away from Fido and Fluffy. Some treats, especially chocolate, can be poisonous to pets. Sutter Amador Hospital wished you a safe and Happy Halloween.