What you need to know about the ‘invisible costume’

This Halloween may be more frightening because of a new and potentially dangerous costume for kids called the “invisible costume.”

The costume is a black morph body suit that covers a child’s body from head to toe, including the face. Because the costume is made completely of black fabric, it blends in when it gets dark outside, making it difficult for drivers to see children as they cross the street.

According to Safe Kids Worldwide, out of all the days of the year, kids have the highest chance of getting hit by a car on Halloween.

It’s also dangerous for children to wear the “invisible costume” because it impairs their vision due to the fact that their face is covered by black fabric, experts agree. Warning labels have been placed on the costume notifying buyers of the vision impairment.

“This is a good reminder that Halloween can be dangerous in addition to being scary,” says Dr. John Beckerman, pediatrician at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, Ill. “Fortunately, this year Halloween is on a Saturday so more kids will be able to trick or treat while it is light out. However, it still stresses the importance of many safety rules and reminders.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following suggestions for dressing up safely:

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.
• When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
• If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child’s costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
• Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and a prescription from an eye care professional.