6. Children should avoid busy streets, always use sidewalks, and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Motorists shoulddrive slowly and be alert to small children crossing streets. Many accidents occur when motorists are backing vehicles out
Be a good neighbor.
1. Keep your porch lights on and eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Remove outdoor safety hazards such as toys, bicycles, garden hoses and lawn ornaments. Make sure the driveway and steps are cleared of leaves, which can be a slipping and falling hazard. Make sure that the driveway and walks are well lit for incoming trick-or-treaters. Replace burned-out or broken light bulbs.
2. Pets get frightened or lost on Halloween. Confine your pets for their safety and for that of trick or treaters. Also keep candy, which can be toxic, away from pets.
Be Safe - Be Seen.
1. Don't assume the right-of-way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters in the dark. Just because one car stops doesn't mean others will.
2. Encourage kids to follow all the rules for pedestrian safety. That includes obeying all traffic laws, looking both ways before crossing, using crosswalks, crossing at intersections and corners and never darting between parked cars.
All Dressed Up.
1. Plan costumes that are bright and have reflective qualities. Consider adding reflective tape or decals to costumes and trick or treat bags. Be sure kids carry a flashlight and use glow sticks for extra visibility.
2. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.
3. Have an adult inspect treats BEFORE eating anything. Do not eat any unwrapped, partially wrapped, or homemade-looking treats.
4. Shorter IS safer. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with an open flame.
5. Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup as a safer alternative.
6. If a sword, cane or stick is part of your child's costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if they trip or fall.
Decorate Safely.
1. Illuminate your jack-o-lanterns with flashlights or battery-operated candles instead of real ones. You won't have the worries of an open flame coming in contact with anything . . .or anyone.
2. If you do use candles, keep them well away from where trick or treaters will be walking or standing. Review with your children the principle of stop, drop and roll should their clothing catch fire.
Lastly, teach children how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
###
