Halloween, while usually a fun time for kids and adults alike, can sometimes turn tragic when accidents occur. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, kids under 14 are four times more likely to be killed as walking pedestrians on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
The safety hazards that Halloween brings about are burns, falls, drunk driving, jaywalking, and pedestrian/car collisions.
Parents can help keep their children safe by following these tips, provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
· Supervise trick-or-treating for children under age 12.
· Establish a curfew for older children.
· Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks and by placing jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.
· Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children.
· Inspect all candy for safety before children eat it. Although the risk that your child’s Halloween candy has been tampered with is extremely low, there is also the chance that his or her candy is unwrapped or spoiled.
· Parents and adults should ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters.
· Make sure children under age 10 are supervised as they cross the street.
· Watch for children in the street and on medians.
· Exit driveways and alleyways carefully.
· Have children get out of cars on the curb side, not on the traffic side.
· Drive slowly.
· Avoid distractions while driving.
· Do not drink and drive.
Kids can do their part in keeping safe by being aware of these tips:
· Carry a cell phone if unaccompanied and know how to reach a parent and how to call 911 in an emergency.
· Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant.
· Consider using face paint instead of masks. (Masks can obstruct vision.)
· Avoid wearing hats that will slide over eyes.
· Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes or oversized shoes to prevent tripping.
· Use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid or sharp.
· Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks (where they exist), and do not cross between parked cars.
· Stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing.
· Remember to look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
· Bring treats home before eating them so parents can inspect them.
As a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, I hope this month’s holiday is safe and fun for everyone. Make sure to visit the blog of our Los Angeles personal injury attorney often so that you stay informed about dangerous products and tips to keep your family safe.