It is that time of year again! Halloween is a very fun and exciting time for children and adults a like. However as parents, our number one concern should be how to keep our children safe and out of harms way. Statistics from the National Traffic Safety Administration show that nearly 100 deaths among young pedestrians occur on October 31st between the hours of 4pm and 10pm. This is four times higher than any other evening during the year!
There are a number of factors that attribute to these fatal incidents, including:
- Most children cross the street at midblock as opposed to the corner or cross walk.
- The wearing of black costumes makes it difficult to be seen by drivers.
- Wearing certain mask impedes their ability to see on coming vehicles.
- Their lack of awareness of their surroundings, due to the excitement of “trick or treating.”
There is also the potential of being attacked or poisoned by potential predators. This is why it is imperative that your child visit the homes of the people you know personally.
Below is a safety checklist to help ensure your child’s safety during Halloween:
- Younger children are accompanied by an adult at all times.
- If the child is old enough to go on his own, be sure he or she goes with responsible friends, stays away from homes he’s not familiar with, doesn’t get in a car of a stranger, stays away from dark areas, such as alleys, fields, and wooded areas.
- Do not allow them to eat any candy until it is been inspected by you.
- Wear light colors and or reflective tape for increased visibility.
- Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.
- Avoid cutting across yards and avoid backyards altogether.
- Cross the street at the corner or crosswalk.
- Follow traffic signals and avoid jaywalking.
- Never accept rides from strangers.
- Be polite and say “Thank you.”
- Avoid banging on doors, use the door bell. If no one answers, leave the property immediately.
- Don’t walk on anyone’s flower beds or front yard…use the drive way.
- Make sure children have proper identification, including their name, address and phone number.
- Don’t carry fake guns, knives or swords that look real. Be sure the swords are flexible and harmless.
- Consider using face paint over mask to eliminate visual and hearing obstructions.
- Be sure to go to well lit houses and stay on the porch when receiving candy.
- Avoid candy that is unwrapped, half wrapped, or has holes in the wrapping.
- Avoid wearing long or baggy costumes to reduce the chances of tripping or falling.
- Establish a curfew for older children.
- Consider having a home party instead of trick or treating.
By following these guidelines, your child should have a safe and exciting experience this Halloween.
