Halloween can mean fun times, but it also can mean dangerous times for trick-or-treaters and their parents if caution isn’t used.
Children are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other night of the year, according to a press release issued by Safe Kids Florence, a program of McLeod Regional Medical Center.
Alert drivers to the presence of trick-or-treaters by carrying a reflective treat bags or wearing glow-in-the-dark costumes.
Using crosswalks, stopping at street corners and looking both ways before crossing a roadway are all good habits, according to S.C. Highway Patrol troopers.
“Drivers can do their part by being especially careful in residential neighborhoods,” said Leah Conner, Safe Kids Florence Prevention Specialist. “Slow down and look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
Experts suggests that children, particularly those younger than 12, should never be allowed to go out alone and should follow a predetermined route while out scoping for candy.
Safe Kids officials said costumes should be short enough to avoid tripping and should fit the body properly.
Costumes should be made of flame-resistant material to avoid burns.
Parents should carefully inspect all candy to ensure it has no signs of tampering and monitor children as they consume treats.
Children younger than six should not be given any hard candy or small, round items according to Safe Kids.
For more information on year round safety call McLeod at (843) 777-5021 or visit www.safekids.org.
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