TRAFFIC SAFETY TIPS FOR CHILDREN AND GHOULS AND MOTORISTS!!!
By: Abraham Diaz
It’s almost Halloween, and that means Darth Vaders, Princesses, and action figure heroes will be trick or treating in our neighborhoods. Because kids tend to focus on the excitement of Halloween and forget about safety, it’s up to us parents, care givers, and motorists to take special care so that these little boys and “ghouls” have a safe and happy holiday, and aren’t “haunted” by unnecessary injuries.
Anytime a child has an accident, it's tragic. The last thing that you want to happen is for your child to be hurt on a holiday, it would forever live in the minds of the child and the family.
The following traffic safety tips will help to ensure that our kids’ Halloween is the best ever.
MOTORISTS:
Stay alert. Neighborhoods that don’t normally have a lot of pedestrian, bicycle and traffic may experience an increase on Halloween night.
Remember that kids will be excited, and may be trying to visit as many houses as possible within a specific time frame. Tick or treaters may suddenly dart into traffic from between parked cars.
Be particularly cautious in areas where cars are parked along the side of the street.
Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.
Be patient and SLOW DOWN. Give children lots of time to cross the street. Their costumes may impair their ability to see and hear you, and to get out of your way quickly.
Remember that kids will be excited and may forget to “stop, look, and listen” before they cross the street.
PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS
A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds. Only trick-or-treat in well-known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on. Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. Never cut across yards or use alleys. Purchase or make costumes that are light colored and clearly visible to motorists. Plan costumes that are bright and reflective.
Decorate or trim costumes, “goody bags,” and other containers with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car’s headlights.
Reflective tape can be purchased at bicycle, hardware, and sporting goods stores.
Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard. Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet. Make sure costumes are short enough so they don’t cause children to trip or fall. Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes.
Masks should not impair a child’s hearing or field of vision. If necessary, enlarge ear and eyeholes, or use makeup to create special effects. Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant. Tie hats and scarves securely to prevent them from slipping over children’s eyes.
Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts. By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others. Plan ahead to use only battery-powered lanterns or chemical light sticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes. Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations. Always walk. Never run across a street.
Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will. No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home. Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered. Simple common sense can do a lot to stop any tragedies from happening.
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