HALLOWEEN SAFETY Halloween is just around the corner. Many view Halloween as a time for fun and treats, costumes, and attending spooky parties. Due to the increased pedestrian traffic, especially in low light conditions, it is also time to use extra caution. According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween night compared to other nights of the year. Here are some safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Safety Council to make Halloween safer for everyone. Children should: • Use caution when Trick-or-Treating o Travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult. o Know phone numbers for emergency phone calls. o Carry a note in their pocket with their name, address, and emergency contact. o Use flashlights, stay on sidewalks if available, and avoid crossing or walking through yards. o Stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing the street. o Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks if available, and avoid crossing between parked cars. o Always look left, right, and left again before crossing the street. • Plan a safe costume o Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant. o Avoid wearing hats that could slide over their eyes. o Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes and avoid oversized shoes to prevent tripping. o Ensure costume weapons are flexible, not rigid or sharp, and are very clearly toys. Adults should: • Ensure safe activities for kids o Supervise children during trick-or-treating and during other activities. o Supervise children as they cross the street. o Establish a curfew for older children. o Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks. Place decorations away from doorways, landings, or walkways. o Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys to young children. o Inspect all candy before children eat it. o Consider taking advantage of community events where kids can wear costumes and trick-or-treat in one central place without the need to navigate city and neighborhood streets. • Use extra caution on the road and in neighborhoods o Drive slowly. o Watch for children in the street and on medians. o Exit driveways carefully. o Have children get out of cars on the curbside, not the traffic side. o Avoid distracted driving or driving while tired. o Do not drive after using alcohol or other drugs. Following these tips can help ensure this Halloween is a safe and fun holiday for everyone.