Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in the United States where thousands dress up in costumes to celebrate. However, safety should be a priority as twice as many pedestrians are killed on Halloween than any other night due to factors like low visibility, dark clothing, and darting into the road. Parents are reminded to accompany young children, plan routes, and check treats, while everyone is advised to be cautious, visible, and avoid alcohol and distractions.

1. Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in the United States. Each
year, thousands of children and adults get dressed up as their favorite
characters to celebrate. Traditionally, Halloween festivities take place late
into the evening, this puts a fine line between having fun and staying safe.

2. Safety Tips for Parents:
• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on the neighborhood
rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you.
• Instruct children to go only to homes with a porch light on. Stress that children should never
enter a home or car for a treat. Look for a welcoming home. If a house looks darker or scary,
stay away even if they have the porch light on.
• Make sure costumes fit properly and do not impede the child from normal range of motion.
Have the children practice wearing a costume a day or two ahead of time to make sure of
safety.
• Make sure to wear appropriate footwear that is comfortable and will not cause tripping.
• Add reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes to help children stand out to motorists. Make
sure children carry a flashlight.
• Do not allow children to eat candy until they are home and all treats have been properly
checked. Throw away any treats that are open or seem suspicious.

3. Twice as many pedestrians are killed on Halloween
night than any other night of the year. Lack
of visibility because of low lighting or dark clothing
accounted for about 15% of the deaths. Other
circumstances varied by age: Darting or running
into the road accounted for about 15% of deaths
in kids ages 5 to 9 and 7% for those 10 to 15. Children and
adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep
heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
Halloween isn’t only about trick or treating. Teens and adults
often partake in the fun by attending costume parties. Remind
employees to celebrate sensibly. Caution them to be aware of
their surroundings, not to over indulge on alcohol, and to
never drink and drive. For those who will be designated
drivers, remind them to watch for children and to drive slowly
and carefully.
Halloween is an important day for homeowners as well. It’s
easy to get caught up in the excitement of setting out spooky
decorations and handing out treats to neighborhood children.

4. Here are some things homeowners should remember before having little goblins and ghosts on their
property:
• Clear the lawn and steps of tripping hazards.
• Put pets away to avoid animal bites.
• Only hand out store bought treats and goodies. Treats should be wrapped.
• As an alternative to candy, consider handing out pencils, stickers, or coloring books.
• Never invite children into your home or vehicle!
• Do not offer alcohol to minors.
• If you do not wish to have trick or treaters at your door, turn your porch light off.
Halloween is a favorite holiday to
celebrate. Please remember to do so
safely and responsibly.