Hard Facts about Halloween Safety

Here’s a scary statistic: On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit and killed by car on Halloween than on any other day of the year, according to “Safe Kids Worldwide”.

There are approximately 2.6 pedestrian fatalities involving children each day in the U.S., but on Halloween, that number more than doubles to 5.5. Children 12-15 are at greatest risk.

Halloween safety tips are extremely important, so we’ve tried to make it fun. Read them, then look for the words in ALL CAPS and find them on the word puzzle below.

COSTUME Safety

• Choose a costume that won’t cause safety hazards; all costumes, WIGS and accessories should be fire-resistant.
• Dark costumes need reflective tape or stickers to be SAFE.
• Carry a flashlight or glow stick.
• Wear non-toxic Halloween makeup rather than a MASK, which can obscure vision.

On the PROWL

• A responsible ADULT should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds
• Plan and preview the route if older children are going alone.
• Agree to a specific time to return home.
• Teach your children never to enter a stranger’s home or car.
• Stay in well-lit areas and use sidewalks.

Safety Tips for Motorists

• SLOW down! Expect the unexpected. Children are EXCITED!
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully
• Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween

Finally, secure your pets. Even the friendliest pup can be stressed or frightened by the constant ringing of the doorbell and unfamiliar costumes. Keep all pets SECURE indoors to prevent them from running out and startling a child or even biting one. Make it home safely to enjoy that CANDY!