PHOENIX (Oct. 28, 2025) – With Halloween just days away, the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center is issuing a comprehensive safety advisory warning families about the increased risk of poisoning and toxic exposures during the holiday. The center's experts are urging parents, caregivers and pet owners to take extra precautions as children and animals face heightened exposure to potentially dangerous substances during Halloween festivities.
“Halloween presents unique safety challenges that many families don't anticipate," said Maureen Roland, director of the Banner poison center. "From candy that may contain harmful substances to decorative items with toxic components, we want to ensure everyone can enjoy the holiday safely."
Key safety concerns identified:
Candy and treat hazards: The center warns that cannabis edibles and medications can easily be mistaken for regular candy, posing serious risks to children and pets. Parents are advised to thoroughly inspect all treats and discard any unwrapped, homemade, or suspicious items.
Battery dangers: Button batteries found in Halloween toys and costumes represent one of the most serious ingestion risks. These batteries can cause severe internal burns within hours if swallowed.
Costume safety: Even "non-toxic" makeup and face paints can cause skin irritation or eye damage. The center recommends patch testing of all new products before application.
Pet protection: Chocolate, xylitol and raisins commonly found in Halloween candy are toxic to pets and should be kept completely out of reach.
Household hazards: Dry ice and fog machines, popular for Halloween effects, can cause burns or respiratory problems if handled improperly. The center provides specific guidelines for safe use, including proper ventilation and protective equipment.
Party risks: Halloween gatherings often increase children's access to cleaning products, alcohol and tobacco products, all of which pose significant poisoning risks.
Dry ice: Handle dry ice safely by wearing gloves, never putting it in drinks, storing it in insulated containers with proper ventilation and keeping car windows open during transport to prevent carbon dioxide buildup.
The Banner Poison and Drug Information Center operates a 24-hour hotline staffed by certified poison specialists who provide immediate, expert guidance for poison emergencies and prevention questions.
"Our team is prepared for the typical increase in calls we see during Halloween," added Roland. "We encourage families not to hesitate if there's any question about a potential poisoning, call us immediately."
About Banner Poison and Drug Information Center
The Banner Poison and Drug Information Center is a phone call away and can be reached at 1-800-222-12222. The center provides a free, 24-hour emergency telephone service for both residents and medical professionals of Maricopa County. Assistance is available in more than 150 languages. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com/poisoncenter.
For further information contact us at: [email protected]