Keeping Your Kids Safe on Halloween: Extra Caution Also Advised for Drivers

2013-10-29
By: Advocate Brokerage

By Glenn Binday

Halloween is a night to explore the spooky, haunted side of life, but for some families, the terror is all too real. Real tragedies serve as a cautionary tale for parents and remind us all to be constantly vigilant.

With more people on the streets than usual, often in non-reflective, dark clothing, trick-or-treating can increase the danger for vehicle-related deaths and injuries. Sadly, this was the case in 1997 in Biscoe, Arkansas, when Jasmine and Prince Watson, ages 7 and 4, made headlines after they were struck by a car and died while trick-or-treating with their parents.

Unfortunately, the Watsons’ deaths are not an anomaly—children are four times more likely to be struck by a car on Halloween than any other night, according to the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

If you’re out driving, be extra careful, and to keep your children safe this Halloween, police advise that you should:

• always accompany your child.
• carry a flashlight
• never enter a stranger’s home
• wear bright and reflective clothing
• inspect all candy before your children eat it, especially fruit and homemade items.

Halloween should be a fun night for all. Help keep it safe for everyone.