Keep little eyes safe during Halloween
By Marty Schneider, OD

Halloween is a time for tricks and treats and things that go bump in the night. But accord- ing to Dr. Marty Schneider, therapeutic optometrist, Hallow- een can also be a time of sight- related hazards. Schneider offers these tips to ensure a safe and happy Halloween.

"Decorating the face with makeup approved for the skin is almost always preferable to masks," Schneider said. "The eyeholes on the masks can be too small to allow full vision or the mask shift during wear and ob- struct sight."

Schneider said it is important that the makeup be approved for use on the skin and care should be taken to keep makeup away from the eyes when putting it on or taking it off.

Decorative contact lenses that make the eyes look like cat eyes or with wild designs are generally safe, said Schneider. "But remember that any contact lens is a medical device and must be prescribe by and worn under the supervision of an eye doctor."

"Do not buy contact lenses from flea markets, beauty shops or any unauthorized outlet," Schneider said. "A contact lens that is not fitted or is worn im- properly can cause serious eye problems like corneal ulcers, corneal abrasion or conjunctivi- tis."

Schneider also recommends the follow to make certain trick or treaters can see and be seen on Halloween:

+Wear reflective clothing or place reflective tape on trick or treat bags and clothing.

+Carry a flashlight. Glow sticks that are sold for Hallow- een are filled with a chemical that can cause eye irritation.

+Tie hats on heads securely with scarves so they don't slip over the eyes and obscure vision.

Schneider owns and practices at Camarillo Vision Center, an optometric practice at 2460 E. Las Posas Road in Camarillo. He can be reached directly at (805) 987-2400.