Halloween is such a fun time – pumpkin carving, costumes, and candy! However, this time of the year also tends to result in accidents and injuries! About 60% of all Halloween related accidents occur from 5pm – 9pm with 23% of accidents occurring during 6pm – 7pm (via State Farm). Halloween is the most dangerous day for child pedestrians (children 18 and under) resulting in over 2 times as many deaths compared to other days (via Children’s Safety Network). Keep these tips in mind when getting ready for Halloween: Costumes Add reflective tape to your children’s costumes and bags to ensure they can be seen Double check that wigs and accessories are fire-resistant If using decorative Halloween makeup, test the makeup on a small area of the skin first to check for an allergic reaction Use nontoxic Halloween makeup Remove all makeup before going to bed to prevent any type of irritation If using props, ensure they are flexible and blunt-tipped to avoid injury Trick-or-Treating Parents should accompany children 12 and under while trick-or-treating Stay with your trick-or-treating group Stick to familiar, well-lit areas Do not eat any treats until you get home and can inspect the candy Never enter a stranger’s home or car Only approach homes that have their porch light on Use flashlights to help you see where you are walking Cross the street at a cross walk or corner Look and listen both ways before crossing the street If possible, stay on sidewalks If your children are mature enough to go alone, plan and review a trick-or-treating route and time to return home Motorists Be extremely cautious and aware of your surroundings Enter and exit your driveway and subdivision carefully Proceed at slower speeds than normal to allow time to react to children running into the street Ensure your headlights are on, even during the day, to make you more visible While driving, scan yards and porches to help anticipate children running toward the street
