It’s getting to be that time when children’s obsession with all things strange and maybe slightly scary is reaching an all-time high. They are picking out costumes, eagerly awaiting the sugar high they’ll inevitably have, followed no doubt by a SERIOUS sugar crash.
It’s an exciting time; they get to be somebody else for just one night. Let’s go over some safety tips and tricks to ensure that the worst parts about Halloween are sugar crashes and an increased chance of cavities.
Twice as many children are hit by cars on Halloween than any other day of the year.
Look both ways before crossing the street.
Try and make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
Be aware of your surroundings; be alert for backing up or turning cars.
Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
Until the age of 12, children should be accompanied by an adult.
Encourage your kids to travel in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
Remind your kids about stranger danger, and that they shouldn’t accept homemade treats from strangers.
If your older children are going alone, plan and review a route that is acceptable to you.
Agree on a time you want the children to arrive home.
Remind your children to never enter a stranger's home or car.
Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don't run, across the street.
Decorate the costume with reflective tape and if possible, choose light colors.
Only 18% of parents will put reflective tape on their children’s costumes.
Choose face paint over masks as much as possible; try to not limit your child’s peripheral vision.
Have kids carry flashlights or glow sticks.
Make sure the costume is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
Slow down and be especially alert in neighborhoods.
Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
Take extra time to look for kids in intersections.
At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
Anticipate heavier pedestrian traffic and turn on headlights earlier in the day in order to be able to see children from farther away.
Again twice as many children are hit by cars than on any other day of the year, so keep your eyes open for kids around you.
Overall, we want Halloween to be a fun, safe enjoyable experience. We hope that as you follow these safety tips you have the best Halloween yet!
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