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Editorial:
Halloween safety is everyone's job
Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, which means there will not only be a lot of trick-or-treaters but there will also be costume parties for adults. These parties are a little wilder than trick-or-treating and because Daylight Saving Time is ending, the parties will last an extra hour this year.
It is important that common sense is used during these parties. Keep an eye on your alcohol intake and don’t drive if you are drinking. The Eyeball Martinis and Bloody Marys might seem like a good idea, but just one of them may impair your driving abilities.
On average twice as many children are killed by a car while walking on Halloween than any other night of the year, according to Safe Kids USA. Children are at greater risk on Halloween simply because they’re more likely to be walking after dark, sometimes without their parents around. Masks can also make it harder to see around corners, and dark costumes can make it harder for drivers to spot them.
It is essential that both adults and children know and obey the law. It’s not safe for children to walk the streets alone, so if children want to go outside trick-or-treating, send a responsible adult with them. Also make sure that the children have glow-in-the-dark patches, sticks or necklaces so they will be easily seen.
Teach your children or younger siblings basic everyday safety such as not getting into cars or talking to strangers, watching both ways before crossing streets and crossing when lights tell you to. It is important to only go trick-or-treating at homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome. Also, never go trick-or-treating alone and make sure you have at least two friends with you.
Costume parties and dressing up seem to be synonymous with Halloween, but it is important that when you pick out a Halloween costume, make sure it is fireproof. Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider using make-up to create the same effect. Many costumes come with props, but make sure that that’s all they are. Don’t carry around a real butcher knife or chainsaw, because this could seriously injure someone. Props should have tips that are smooth and flexible enough to not cause injury.
Children and adults alike should pay extra attention this Saturday. Drivers will see more princesses and superheroes than any other day of the year and should make sure to drive safely and not drive while under the influence. Children must also be responsible enough to make sure they know the rules of the road and that they are visible to drivers by using flashlights, glow-in-the-dark patches, sticks or necklaces. Halloween safety is a two-way street.
The Advocate reserves the right to not publish comments based on their appropriateness.