For most of us, Halloween brings back a wave of childhood memories: silly and spooky costumes, the excitement of trick-or-treating, school parades, neighborhood block parties, and that distinct feeling of being scared out of our wits.
The last thing anyone wants is a trip to the emergency room, or worse. But sadly, children are twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than on any other night of the year, so visibility is key.
As a parent and an injury prevention manager with AMR San Diego, my goal is to make sure every child makes it home safely after the thrill of the evening winds down. To help keep the night bright, fun and focused on filling that candy bucket, here are a few simple safety tips to keep in mind before you head out…
Light them up! If your trick-or-treater is wearing a dark costume, add a few strips of reflective tape or stickers. Send everyone out with a flashlight equipped with fresh batteries, a few fun glow sticks, or clip on lights, and use reflective trick or treat bags whenever possible.
Consider ditching the masks. Masks decrease the ability to see your surroundings clearly. Choose non-toxic face paint, and trim long costumes so little ones don’t trip over their own capes or clothing.
Stick to the path. Stick to sidewalks and designated walkways whenever possible. Always cross streets at well-lit corners or crosswalks. Remind kids to look left, right, and left again before stepping off the curb.
If you are driving during trick-or-treat hours, please take extra care and turn on your headlights earlier in the evening to spot pedestrians easily. In addition, SLOW DOWN and STAY ALERT. Drive below the speed limit in residential areas and stay hyper-alert for children who might excitedly dart out from between parked cars. Please put away the mobile phone, avoid all distractions, and, as always, never drive under the influence.
With just a little extra preparation, we can prevent a fun-filled night from turning tragic and make sure that everyone walks away with wonderful Halloween memories that last a lifetime.
From all of us at AMR San Diego, we wish you a safe, spooky and happy Halloween!
Tina Indalecio is the Community Education and Public Affairs Manager for AMR San Diego and Imperial Counties. She holds a master’s degree in public health, is a certified child passenger safety technician, and is currently working on her doctorate at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.
Tina Indalecio is the Community Education and Public Affairs Manager for AMR San Diego and Imperial Counties. She holds a master’s degree in public health, is a certified child passenger safety technician, and is currently working on her doctorate at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.
