Halloween is crammed with spooky surprises, however security consultants say one of many largest dangers has nothing to do with ghosts or goblins.
Kids are greater than twice as more likely to be hit by a automobile and killed on Halloween than on every other day of the yr, in keeping with Protected Youngsters Worldwide. The nonprofit is utilizing the vacation to remind households and drivers that just a few easy precautions will help preserve trick-or-treaters secure.
“Our objective annually is actually to teach the significance of ‘be seen on Halloween,’” Torine Creppy, president of Protected Youngsters Worldwide, mentioned.
With extra youngsters anticipated to be out after darkish, typically distracted by costumes, sweet and pleasure, Creppy says visibility and attentiveness are key.
“We see thrice extra seemingly a pedestrian being hit on Halloween than every other day of the yr,” she mentioned. “Youngsters are out, they’re having enjoyable, and I feel we put our guard down.”
That is why Protected Youngsters Worldwide is emphasizing a easy message: be seen and keep alert.
How trick-or-treaters can keep secure
One of many best methods to enhance security is to make costumes simpler for drivers to see.
Protected Youngsters Worldwide recommends adorning costumes and deal with baggage with reflective tape or stickers and selecting lighter-colored costumes when doable. Kids must also carry glow sticks or flashlights to assist illuminate their path and improve visibility.
The group additionally encourages households to make use of face paint as a substitute of masks every time doable, since masks could make it more durable for kids to see their environment.
When crossing the road, youngsters ought to use crosswalks and site visitors indicators, look left, proper and left once more, and proceed anticipating site visitors as they cross.
“Most significantly, we need to take motion in opposition to distraction that day,” Creppy mentioned.
Kids ought to make eye contact with drivers earlier than crossing and keep away from darting into the road or crossing between parked automobiles.
Security suggestions for folks
Protected Youngsters Worldwide recommends that youngsters youthful than 12 be accompanied by an grownup whereas trick-or-treating.
For older youngsters who’re mature sufficient to exit with out supervision, mother and father ought to encourage them to remain in acquainted, well-lit areas and journey in teams.
Dad and mom must also be sure that costumes match correctly to assist forestall journeys and falls.
What drivers ought to keep in mind
Security consultants say drivers play an equally necessary function in stopping accidents on Halloween.
Creppy urges motorists to decelerate in residential neighborhoods and anticipate extra youngsters to be strolling close to roads, driveways and intersections.
“We wish the driving force to decelerate within the neighborhood, decelerate whereas driving, as a result of we now have quite a lot of youngsters out this night time,” she mentioned.
Drivers must also get rid of distractions inside their autos, preserve their eyes on the street and be particularly alert throughout peak trick-or-treating hours, usually between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Creppy mentioned households haven’t got to decide on between enjoyable and security on Halloween. By slowing down, staying alert and taking easy steps to extend visibility, everybody will help make the vacation safer.
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