Halloween brings candy, costumes and fun. Sadly, it also means danger. According to the National Safety Council, 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. As parents, we all want our children to experience the joy of trick-or-treating, but we must do everything possible to keep our kids safe.
There are many things we can do to promote safety from traffic accidents and other risks. For example, with respect to costumes, parents can:
- Avoid masks that obstruct vision, to insure that children can see traffic
- Avoid costumes with loose ties or fabrics, to prevent falls and injuries
- If trick-or-treat occurs after dark, make reflective materials part of the costume (or have a child carry a glow stick that can be seen by drivers)
- If a costume involves makeup, make sure that it is non-toxic and does not cause eye irritation
Parents can also plan the trick-or-treat route
- Have responsible adult accompany young children as they go house to house
- Make sure children go to the front door only — and only to houses that are well lighted.
- Have children travel in small groups of three or four — large enough to promote safety, but not so large that the group is beyond the control of the responsible adult
- Make sure the responsible adult isn’t using a cellphone, headphones or other device that may distract from proper supervision
Finally, drivers should follow a few simple safety rules on Halloween to help protect children:
- Drive below the speed limit, particularly in neighborhoods
- Pay particular attention near driveways, alleys and hidden curves
- Anticipate children in dark costumes — don’t assume that all costumes will have reflective material, or that a child will be carrying a glow stick
At Clark, Perdue & List, we wish you and your families a safe and happy Halloween holiday.
Have questions about your legal situation?
Speaking with an experienced attorney can make all the difference. Our team is ready to listen, evaluate your case, and explain your options clearly.
📞 Call us today at (614) 469-1400 for a free, confidential consultation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and laws are subject to change. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with a qualified attorney regarding your specific legal situation.
Share With Your Colleagues