Halloween is just around the corner, which means it’s time for kids (and parents too!) to get dressed up and hit the streets in search for the ultimate treat!  However, what’s scarier than any costume you may see, are the child safety statistics that this holiday brings.

According to Safe Kids Worldwide, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year.  Here are some tips to ensure you and your kids have a safe holiday.

Walk Safely

• Use traffic signals and crosswalks; cross the street at corners
• When crossing the street look left, right, then left again; keep looking as you cross.
• Do not use electronic devices when crossing the street.
• Walk, don’t run across the street.
• Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
• Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If no sidewalks are available, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.
• Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never cross in between parked cars or to dart out into the street.

Trick or Treat With an Adult

• Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If children are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should remain in well lit, familiar areas, and trick-or-treat in groups.

Costumes can be Creative and Safe!

• Use reflective stickers or tape to decorate costumes and trick-or-treat bags.
• If possible, choose light colors for costumes.
• Masks can obstruct a child’s vision. When possible, choose face paint or makeup.
• Give children flashlights or glow sticks to help them see and be seen by drivers.
• When selecting a costume, make sure it fits properly to prevent trips and falls.

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

• Kids get excited on Halloween and can move in unpredictable ways. Slow down and be alert in residential neighborhoods.
• Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
• Remove all distractions inside your car so you can fully concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
• Anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic. Drive slowly and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.
• Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for children during these peak hours.

 
Following these effective tips can greatly reduce the risk of personal injury for you and your child on this holiday.  Young Wooldridge, LLP wishes you and your family a safe and Happy Halloween!