Once again the year has passed quickly and we find ourselves into that time of year called fall. The trees are changing into vibrate colours and there is that morning crispness in the air. Animals are collecting foods to store in preparation of winter and children and families are preparing for that yearly event called Halloween. Trick or treating can be alot of fun, but safety is also a major concern. By following simple tips, both for treaters and drivers, it ensures everyone has a safe and happy Halloween.

Walk Safely

-Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
-Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.
-Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
-Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
-Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to
the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.
-Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

Trick or Treat With an Adult

-Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.
-All candy should be inspected by an adult to make sure that no one has tampered with it. If it looks suspicious, the police should be notified.

Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe

-Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
-Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
-Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
-When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls and is appropriate for the weather conditions.

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

-Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
-Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
-Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
-Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
-Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.
-Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.
-For extra safety, organize a Halloween party for your childs friends, or for the children in the neighborhood.