American Red Cross Halloween Safety Tips

Here is a statistic from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that is sure to spook adults - children are four times more likely to be hit by a vehicle (car, motorcycle, SUV, truck) on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
With Halloween coming on Tuesday, October 31, two days after the end of Daylight Savings Time, thousands of children and young adults will be scurrying around after the sun goes down. While trick-or-treating can be scary at times (vandalism, street traffic and tampered goodies), safety guidelines provided by the American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC) can help goblins of all ages enjoy plenty of fun.
&#8220With most trick-or-treating at dusk or at night, and excited witches, monsters, princesses and superheroes running through neighborhoods in search of treats, the potential is high for dangerous incidents to occur,” said Joan A. Foley, director, American Red Cross in Greater New York - Queens. &#8220Halloween should be filled with pleasant surprises for children and teens, and adults can enhance the enjoyment by discussing the importance of safety before anyone leaves home.”
The following tips for children, adults and motorists are provided by the American Red Cross in Greater New York:
Tips to Teach Children
• Plan your route and share it with your family.
• Walk, slither, and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street.
• Cross the street only at corners, not in the middle of the block and stay together in a group before crossing.
• Wear light-colored or reflective clothing so you are more visible.
• Carry a flashlight to light your way.
• Keep away from open fires and candles. If a costume catches fire, STOP, DROP and ROLL.
• Accept treats at the door; never go into a stranger’s house or apartment.
• Don't eat candy if the package has already been opened.
Tips for Parents
• Establish a route in a well-known neighborhood and discuss it with your kids.
• Accompany children under age 12 - either you, another adult or an older youth.
• Choose a firm return time.
• Make sure children know their phone number and carry coins for emergency telephone calls or carry a cell phone.
• Make sure your older children are carrying ID.
• Have children use flexible costume knives and swords, not ones that are rigid or sharp.
• Ask children to bring treats home before eating them so you can inspect them.
• Flush eyes with cool water should face paint, glitter, or shaving cream get into eyes.
Tips for Drivers
• Slow down in residential neighborhoods (drive at least five miles under the speed limit) to give yourself time to react to excited trick-or-treaters who might dart into the street, especially mid-block or from between parked cars.
• Use extra caution when exiting driveways and alleyways.
• Turn on your vehicle's headlights, even during the day. They make you more visible.
For more information, call 1-877 RED CROSS (1-877-733-2767), or visit www.nyredcross.org .