BUFFALO, N.Y. — Having an accident is probably the last thing you're thinking about as you help your kids get their costumes together and stock up your candy bowl to get ready for Halloween. But children are more than twice as likely to be fatally injured by a car on Halloween than any other day of the year.
That's why the medical staff at Oishei Children's Hospital is sharing some important advice and reminders for parents and families ahead of the holiday.
- Avoid distracted walking. Text messaging, talking on or looking at mobile phones and listening to music can district from safe walking.
- Cross the street as a group at established crosswalks. Most (62%) child pedestrian traffic fatalities occurred mid-block, rather than at intersections. (Source)
- Stay on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
- Only go to homes with a porch light on and a well-lit pathway.
- Costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant, as well as bright and reflective. Use reflective tape, or give kids glow sticks for greater visibility.
- Make sure that shoes fit well and leave any sharp accessories at home. Costumes that drag on the ground as well as swords, canes, and sticks can be a tripping hazard.
- Non-toxic makeup is a safer alternative to masks, which can obscure vision. Remember to remove all makeup before bed to prevent skin and eye irritation!
- Parents should always accompany young children, and older children should travel in groups. Talk to older children about using the "buddy system," agree on a time to come home, and bring flashlights.
- Kids should never enter a home or car for a treat. Notify law enforcement about any suspicious or unlawful activity.
- Make sure your child knows how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or get lost.
- Don’t eat candy until it has been inspected at home for tampering, food allergies, and choking hazards.
Safety Tips for Motorists
- Travel with caution and under speed and enter and exit driveways carefully.
- Watch for children in dark clothing walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
- Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.