Although Halloween can be a fun holiday for children, it’s also one of the most dangerous for them as well.
Ghosts, Ghouls, Witches & Clowns aren’t the only things frightening children this Halloween. Car crashes, pedestrian accidents, and premises liability claims are on the rise for this trick-or-treat holiday. Although Halloween can be a fun holiday for children, it’s also one of the most dangerous for them as well. Follow these Halloween safety tips from the experts to ensure your children stay safe this Halloween.
Plan Your Route Early:
- Plan early, and make sure everyone knows the route.
- Stay in familiar neighborhoods.
- Travel in larger groups with an adult present.
- Carry a flashlight, or other light source when darkness looms (with new batteries).
- Have your child carry a cell phone for emergencies & GPS tracking.
- Wear easy-to-read identification or ID tags on children’s costumes.
- Stay on sidewalks & only cross on intersections (watch for cars).
- Walk, don’t run (with your head up).
- Follow the curfew.
- Never accept a ride from a stranger.
Trick or Treating Tips:
- Stay away from open flames (think jack-o-lanterns).
- Only visit well-lit homes – don’t go inside a home.
- Don’t approach unfamiliar pets or animals.
- Only eat inspected candy.
- Make sure the costume is appropriate to walk in. Don’t let it drag, this could cause an accident!
Home Safe Home:
- Remove anything extra in your front yard that a child could possible trip over. Think hoses, potted plants, etc.
- Keep your home well lit. Replace any burnt out lightbulbs, and make sure candle flames are well protected.
- Restrain pets. Don’t let them jump on a trick-or-treater or run after a child.
Motorist Safety Tips:
- Watch for children (especially in dark clothing/costumes).
- Enter & Exit Driveways with extreme caution.
- Slow Down! Drive the speed limit.
- Don’t assume the right-of-way.
- Eliminate any distractions inside your car, so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
In 2014, approximately 6,300 pedestrian deaths and 145,000 medically treated injuries happened among pedestrians vs. motor vehicle accidents on Halloween. In the U.S. October ranks the second (2nd) deadliest month for motor vehicle accidents. Follow these best practices to keep both your children and other trick-or-treaters safe.
