Halloween Safety

Halloween

It’s that time of year again, as autumn brings cooler weather and a welcome break from the scorching summer heat. It is a season of changing leaves, hayrides, pumpkin picking, campfires, and the first of the end of the year holidays: Halloween! Each year, Halloween is celebrated with costumes, parties, trick-or-treating, and creepy fun. While it can be a wonderful time for everyone, it can also be dangerous. Safety should always be a part of your plan, so follow these tips to help keep you and your family safe while you enjoy the festivities.

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating
•    Stay Visible: Give your children flashlights or glow sticks and add reflective tape to their costumes so they are easily visible to drivers.
•    Mask-Free Vision: Use face paint instead of masks to keep your children's vision clear.
•    Use the Sidewalks: Use sidewalks and paths, and always cross streets at designated crosswalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk as far to the left side of the street as possible, facing oncoming traffic.
•    Buddy Up: Have your children trick-or-treat in groups whenever possible, and ensure a trusted adult stays with them.
•    Follow the Rules: Always obey traffic signs and signals.
•    Stay Alert & Avoid Distractions: Avoid using cell phones or wearing headphones while walking. Stay alert and watch closely for traffic.
•    Check the Treats: Always inspect your children’s candy before they eat it, and discard anything unwrapped or suspicious.

Safety Tips for Drivers
•    Be Alert: Keep a close eye out for trick-or-treaters and pedestrians.
•    Slow Down: Driving at slower speeds can save lives.
•    Be Cautious: Children are often unaware of traffic and may dart into the street unexpectedly or appear in unusual places.
•    If You See Something, Say Something: If you see someone driving in an unsafe manner, contact law enforcement immediately.

Local Union 669 wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween!