Tips for making Halloween safer for trick-or-treaters, drivers

OHIO — Halloween can bring an immense amount of joy to communities, but it can also be dangerous if safety isn’t kept in mind. 

Halloween can be one of the most dangerous times of the year for child pedestrians, AAA states. The American Red Cross also states the risk of pedestrian fatalities is 43% higher on Halloween compared to other nights the rest of the year, as found by research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

“Trick-or-treaters running from house to house with friends may not be cautious on Halloween,” said Heidi Ruster, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “As drivers, we must be vigilant and prepared for children who might suddenly run into the street.”

To keep children, adults and motorists safe this Halloween, AAA has tips to ensure a fun, sweet treat-filled holiday. 

For parents and guardians: 

• Pin a piece of paper with your child’s name, address and phone number inside your child’s pocket in case you get separated
• Make sure to talk over the trick-or-treat route with children and tell them to only travel on the established route
• Ensure your child knows to only stop at well-lit houses, and to never enter a home or garage
• Instruct children to not eat the candy until they are home
• For costumes, ensure they are flame-retardant and visible

For trick-or-treaters:

• Carry a flashlight containing fresh batteries
• Place the flashlight face down in the treat bucket and never point it at drivers
• Always stay on sidewalks and avoid walking in streets
• Stay with a group of people and don’t wander off on your own
• Tell your parents/guardians where you are going and make sure to get home by a pre-established time

For drivers:

• Slow down in neighborhoods and obey traffic laws
• Drive at least 5 mph below the speed limit 
• Scan the road for children

Additionally, the Westlake Police Department gave these tips for costume safety: 

• Avoid toy weapons, and if wanted, make sure they are flexible and not hard enough to cause injury
• Don’t wear hats or wigs that cover eyes
• Avoid long, baggy or loose costumes that could cause tripping
• Make sure children can see through masks or use makeup instead
• Avoid frightening pets, as children are in costumes and could scare them
• Wear comfortable shoes