Between the hype of costumes and candy, it’s easy to forget the safety hazards posed by Halloween night. With increased foot traffic on and around the streets in the evening, it’s important for both pedestrians and drivers to be hyper-aware on All Hallows’ Eve. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is four times more likely that children get hit by a car on Halloween compared to any other day.
Whether you’re taking your kids out trick-or-treating, or just plan to be out driving on Halloween night, use these tips to help keep the holiday safe and fun for everyone.
Trick-or-Treating
Children under the age of 12 should always be accompanied by an adult. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you’re going out with your younger children or plan on sending your teenagers out on their own:
- Map out a route with your older children, sticking to neighborhoods and areas they are familiar with and set a specific time for them to return home.
- Equip them with a cell phone (if they do not already have one) and review how to call 9-1-1 in case of emergency.
- Give children flashlights to help them stay visible, but remind them not to shine the light into the eyes of drivers.
- Always walk on the sidewalks, crossing at street corners and in crosswalks.
- Put electronic devices out of sight to keep them from distracting you.