Halloween is just around the corner! Whether you’re still a trick-or-treater or looking forward to accompanying your children on the spookiest day of the year, it’s important to brush up on Halloween safety for the entire family. The statistics are scary: twice as many children are killed while walking on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
“Parents should talk with their children about the ways to stay safe while trick-or-treating,” explains Joy Custer, program manager of Seton Harker Heights’ Trauma Program.
The following list of important Halloween safety tips was compiled by Custer for all to keep in mind this spooky season.
Dress the part…but be smart
> Make sure accessories, such as play swords, are not sharp or too long. Kids can trip and be easily hurt if they are carrying sharp objects.
> Children should wear reflective tape or lights to increase their visibility to drivers.
> Avoid masks or costumes that obstruct your child’s vision. Face paint or make-up can be a good alternative.
> Choose non-flammable costume materials.
Tips for trick-or-treaters
> Kids should carry a cell phone. Parents: Instruct your children when to call 911 if they are lost or have an emergency.
> Kids should stay with their parents and/or in a small group.
> Kids 12 years and younger should be accompanied by an adult and should only cross streets with an adult.
> Cross the street at a corner or at a traffic signal.
> Do not cut across yards, alleyways, or between cars, and stay on well-lit streets.
> Walk on sidewalks or pathways. If no sidewalk is available, walk as close to the side of the road as possible or walk facing toward the flow of traffic.
> Carry flashlights to illuminate your path and increase your visibility to drivers.
> Only approach homes whose porch lights are illuminated, and never, ever enter a home or car for a treat.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
Stay safe and happy hauntings from your friends at Seton Harker Heights!