Halloween Safety Tips

According to the American Red Cross, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Be sure to follow the above costume Halloween safety tips, and these trick-or-treat specific ones below.

•  If you are driving, be alert for pedestrians and use extra caution when entering or exiting driveways or alleys. Drive slowly and watch for young trick-or-treaters in unexpected places. Children may be unaware of traffic and rush into the street unexpectedly.
• Create a buddy system to keep older children from walking alone. A responsible adult should accompany small children on the neighborhood rounds.
• If older children are trick-or-treating alone, plan a route with them and agree on a set time to return home. They should travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
• While razor blades and LSD-laced candies are unfounded urban legends, it is good to check candy before consuming. Take note of any allergens, choking hazards, or loose candy.
• If you plan to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home, make sure the path to your house is well-lit and sweep the leaves from your sidewalks and steps. Clear obstacles that could become tripping hazards.