Here’s how to keep trick-or-treaters safe this Halloween
/By Jonathan Sperling
Thursday is Halloween, which means hoards of trick-or-treaters will take to the streets for candy, frights and fun. But cavities aren’t the only thing parents should look out for when taking their kids trick-or-treating — the scary truth is that children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
So, whether you are a door-to-door trick-or-treater, passing out treats at home, or simply driving around on Halloween, the Red Cross and the NYC Administration for Children’s Services suggest these tips for staying safe while still maximizing fun.
Make sure trick-or-treaters can see and be seen
Use face makeup instead of masks. Masks can make it hard to see.
Give kids a flashlight to light their way.
Have everyone wear light-colored clothing. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags so kids are easier to see in the dark.
Use flame-resistant costumes.
Children should trick or treat in groups, never alone
Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance.
Make sure adults know where their children are going.
A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door in neighborhoods.
Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street
Walk, don’t run.
Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner.
Don’t cross between parked cars.
Never walk through alleys or cut across yards. Only cross the street in designated crosswalks.
Adults should use extra caution if driving. Trick-or-treaters are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.
Accept treats at the door — never go inside
It’s not only vampires and monsters children have to look out for. Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
Make sure a grown-up checks the goodies before eating.
Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards.
Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.
Leave the pumpkin carving to adults.
Small children should never carve pumpkins. Instead, let them draw a face with markers.
Use a flashlight or glowstick to light the pumpkin instead of a candle.
“This Halloween, we want kids across the City to have fun but also be safe,” ACS Commissioner David Hansell said. “From choosing the right costume, to planning a trick-or-treat route in advance, packing a flashlight, and more, there’s lots of ways to ensure kids stay safe this Halloween.”
