(
KLFY) — From trick-or-treating to costume parties, Halloween can be a day full of fall fun. To help everyone enjoy a safe and happy Halloween, here are some safety tips.
If you are a trick-or-treater or a party goer, National Highway of Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and American
Red Cross suggest the following tips to help pedestrians be aware of drivers:
- Create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone.
- Be aware and obey road signs and signals around you.
- If possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
- Be sure to wear reflective or bright attire so you can be seen by drivers at night.
- Halloween can spook your pets, causing them to run away. Make sure your pet wears a pet ID. If they are going out after dark, make sure they wear a reflective collar and are securely leashed.
- If you’re considering a costume for your pet, make sure the animal comfortable with the idea and that the costume doesn’t limit their movement or hamper their breathing or sight
Halloween is also the be the busiest time of the year for pedestrians. Drivers are asked to be aware of the following:
- Be aware of trick-or-treaters. Watch out for young children or people wearing dark clothing.
- Be sure to slow down and scan the road.
- If you are drunk or impaired in any way do not go behind the wheel and find other ways to go home.
As tempting as Halloween candy can be, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) encourages those to remember these food safety tips:
- Don’t eat candy until it has been inspected at home.
- Eat a snack before heading out to avoid the temptation of eating a treat before it has been inspected.
- In case of a food allergy, check the label to ensure the allergen isn’t present.
- Tell people not to accept or eat anything that isn’t commercially wrapped.
- Parents and guardians of very young children should remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys from the Halloween bags.
- Inspect commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes, or tears in wrappers. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.
For the adults who are ready for a night out full of costumes and games, the NHTSA and FDA encourages others to consider the following to avoid potential accidents:
- Before drinking, choose a designated driver, or schedule a ridesharing, ride-hailing or taxi service. If you drink, do not drive for any reason. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving ability.
- As a party host be responsible and take action to make sure guests get home safely.
- Party host should prepare to find alternative transportation options or provide sleeping accommodations for their guests.
- Collect car keys from guests who are drinking.
- Provide non-alcoholic beverage options for designated drivers.
Enjoy the fall festivities and remember these safety tips for all ages on how to have a great Halloween.
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