Next week, as we dress our children in their costumes for trick-or-treating activities in our communities and neighborhoods, let’s also Integrate these tips into our preparation to create a tradition of safety during Halloween.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Halloween is considered the deadliest day of the year for children. In fact, more than twice as many children are killed in pedestrian vehicle accidents between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. than on any other day throughout the year.

Halloween Safety Tips:

• Dress appropriately. Layer up for cold weather.
• Increase your visibility and use reflective bright colors. Carry glow sticks, a flash light, or use reflective tape on costumes and bags so drivers can see you
• Masks can obscure vision causing a traffic or tripping hazard. Make sure holes for eyes are large enough to see through.
• Stick to familiar, well-lit areas.
• Walk on sidewalks or as near to the curb as possible.
• Encourage kids to stay together.
• Be mindful of traffic safety and follow all traffic-safety rules by crossing the street using crosswalks or use the street corners. Do not jay walk.
• Drivers—slow down and be alert, turn on headlights early in the day to spot trick-or-treaters.
• Inspect all treats before eating them and remove any treats that aren’t age-appropriate such as gum or jawbreakers that toddlers may choke on.