Trick-or-treating safely on Halloween

Twice as many children are killed in pedestrian/vehicle incidents on Halloween between 4 to 10 p.m., compared to the same hours on other days throughout the years, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
  “Halloween is an exciting time of the year for our children,” said County Executive Ed Mangano.  “I urge parents to review safety with their children this Halloween, and I wish all an exciting fun-filled day.”
Safe Kids Nassau County offers these tips.
Cross streets safely. Cross at a corner, using signals and crosswalks. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.  Look left, right and left again when crossing, and keep looking as you cross.
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. Do not use electronic devices while walking. Costumes can be both creative and safe. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers. Masks can obstruct a child’s vision, so choose non-toxic face paint and make-up instead. Children should carry flashlights to see and be seen.
Be especially alert. Kids are excited and may move in unpredictable ways. Remember that popular trick-or-treating hours are during the typical rush-hour period between 5:30 to 9:30 pm.
Drive slowly. Slow down and anticipate heavier than usual pedestrian traffic. Headlights should be on so that children can be spotted from greater distances.
Reduce distractions. Eliminate driver distractions such as talking on the telephone or eating.
  Although pedestrian safety is a main concern on Halloween, parents also need to keep in mind that there are other hazards for their children on this day. For more tips on how to keep kids safe while walking on Halloween and throughout the year, visit http://www.usa.safekids.org and search Halloween.