ER visits spike on Halloween - WAFF-TV: News, Weather and Sports for Huntsville, AL

Halloween can bring tricks and treats for kids, but it can also lead to a trip to the hospital.

Doctors say they see a spike in visits every year. While most injuries are minor, most can be avoided.

The number one reason for ER trips on Halloween is a child being hit by a car. With kids running around in the dark, darting from house to house, it's easy for a driver to not spot a child. That's one of the reason it's suggested you trick or treat in a well lit neighborhood.

Another common injury is broken bones and scrapes and bruises after a kid trips and falls. A lot of time their costumes may be too big, or they can't see due to a mask.  

Doctors also warn parents to check their kid's costumes before sending them out. Kids are sometimes allergic to the material and may break out In a rash. The same goes for any makeup. You should put a small amount of makeup on your child's hand before apply to their face.

When it comes to candy, doctors say ration it out to avoid the belly ache. They also suggest you only allow your kid to eat store bought candy, no homemade treats. You never know what those could contain.

The Animal Emergency Clinic of North Alabama in Huntsville will be offering free x-rays of all Halloween candy. The x-rays will show up any wood or metal that may be in the candy. That event is Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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