Media release from the American Red Cross Georgia Region:
Halloween is one of the most popular days in the U.S. with people of all ages taking part in trick-or-treating, decorating homes, attending parties and other festivities. But while Halloween is filled with fun and excitement, there is one statistic that casts a shadow over the festivities: According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
It’s a sobering reality, and one the American Red Cross hopes to help change. Here are a few tips to help everyone have a fun and safe Halloween.
COSTUME SAFETY
Trick-or-treaters need to be easily visible and able to see clearly. Try these tips to help keep them safe:
- Use face makeup instead of masks whenever possible.
- Choose light-colored clothing if you can.
- Add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags.
- Select flame-resistant costumes and wigs.
- Avoid costumes with long, trailing fabric that could cause trips and falls.
- Skip decorative contact lenses to help prevent eye injuries.
- If carving pumpkins, use battery-operated lights or glow sticks instead of candles.
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Follow these steps for a safer Halloween:
- Walk on sidewalks whenever possible.
- If there are no sidewalks, walk on the edge of the road facing traffic.
- Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at corners or crosswalks.
- Never cross between parked cars, cut across yards, or use alleys.
- Carry a flashlight to help light the way.
- Walk, don’t run.
- Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS FOR CHILDREN
Teach children to only visit homes with porch lights on, accept treats at the door, and never enter a stranger’s home. Here are more ways to keep your kids safe:
- Accompany young children while trick-or-treating.
- If older children go out on their own, plan their route and establish a specific return time.
- Inspect all treats before they are eaten. Remove loose candy, discard opened packages, and eliminate any potential choking hazards. When in doubt, throw it out.
SAFETY REMINDER FOR DRIVERS
Drivers should use extra caution, especially after dark. Children may be excited and forget to look both ways before crossing the street, and many costumes can be difficult to see at night.
MAKING YOUR HOME SAFER FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS
If you’re expecting trick-or-treaters:
- Keep your porch, walkway and entry area well lit.
- Sweep leaves from sidewalks and steps.
- Remove any obstacles that could cause slips, trips or falls.
HALLOWEEN PARTY SAFETY
Alcohol-related traffic incidents increase around Halloween, and many Halloween traffic fatalities involve impaired drivers. Party hosts should:
- Offer non-alcoholic beverage options.
- Arrange safe transportation for guests who have been drinking.
- Consider ride-sharing services, taxis, designated drivers, or driving guests home yourself if you have not been drinking.
- Collect car keys from guests who may not be safe to drive.
- If you are the one planning on drinking alcohol, choose a designated driver, arrange a ride-share, or make other transportation plans before celebrating. Never drive impaired.
KEEPING PETS SAFE
If you’re hosting a party or welcoming trick-or-treaters, keep pets in a separate area away from the activity.
HALLOWEEN TREATS AND PETS
Many Halloween treats, especially chocolate and certain candies, can be toxic to animals. Keep all treats out of your pets’ reach.
PET COSTUME SAFETY
You may think that pet costume is adorable, but your furry friend may think differently. Only put a costume on your pet if they are comfortable wearing one. Make sure the costume does not restrict movement, breathing, vision, or hearing.
PREVENTING PETS FROM GETTING LOST
Halloween can be stressful for pets and may cause them to run away. Make sure your pet wears identification tags, has a secure leash when outdoors, and wears a reflective collar if going out after dark.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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