PALO ALTO, Calif-- Halloween is supposed to be a spooky night, but parents don’t have to be scared about their kids’ safety if they follow some simple safety tips.
 
“Parents need to remind kids about safety while walking before they go out trick-or-treating,” says Benjamin Arias, coordinator of Safe Kids Santa Clara/San Mateo.  “Children should also bring flashlights or glow sticks with them, carry reflective bags or have reflective tape on their costumes and not wear masks which may inhibit their ability to see hazards. Ensuring kids are seen this Halloween is essential to keep this holiday fun for everyone.”

Tips for Parents

• Dressing up.  Parents need to look for non-flammable costumes and non-toxic designations when choosing Halloween makeup.
• Stay together.  Children under age 10 should not trick-or-treat without adult supervision.  Older kids should make sure they stick to a predetermined route with good lighting.
• Cross streets safely. Cross at a corner, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them. Look left, right and left again when crossing, and keep looking as you cross. Walk, don’t run, across the street.
• Walk on well lit sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.  Children should walk in familiar areas with minimal street crossings.
• Be a safe pedestrian around cars. Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
• Sweet treats.  Parents must check treats for signs of tampering before children are allowed to eat them.

Tips for Drivers

• Be especially alert.   Remember that popular trick-or-treating hours are during the typical rush-hour period, between 5:30-9:30 p.m.
• Drive more slowly.   Slow down and anticipate heavier than usual pedestrian traffic.
• Lights on.   Be sure to drive with your full headlights on so you can spot children from greater distances.