- Children are more than twice as likely to get hit by a vehicle while trick-or-treating than on any other night
- Choose bright-colored costumes or use reflective tape on costumes
- Carry a flashlight and make sure costumes fit properly so kids don't trip and fall
BETHLEHEM, Pa. — It’s a scary thought: Children are more than twice as likely to get hit by a vehicle while trick-or-treating than on any other night, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.
That’s why AAA is putting out safety tips to parents to help keep kids from harm during the holiday.
“AAA is reminding parents and caregivers [of] the importance of Halloween safety because children are out there for their trick-or-treat night," said Theresa Podguski, Director of Legislative Affairs for AAA East Central.
"We want everyone to have a fun, safe time.”Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central
"We want everyone to have a fun, safe time.”
Podguski said parents should take a few things into consideration when choosing costumes for their children, such as dressing them in bright colors or using reflective tape so they can be seen in the dark.
“Making sure that those costumes are safe that they're not too long and dragging on the ground where the child could trip and fall, so think about footwear as well,” she said.
“We don't want their vision to be impaired. We want them to be able to see their surroundings. So if you choose a mask for your child, make sure that it fits securely and safely.”
Other ways to keep kids safe
She also said children and adults should carry flashlights.
AAA recommends that costumes be made out of flame-resistant fabrics that resist burning and can be extinguished quickly.
"Put those distractions aside, put aside our cell phone. If we take our eyes off the road for just two seconds, it doubles our chances of being involved in a collision.”Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central
Podguski said people should be aware of when trick-or-treating is taking place in their neighborhood, so they can pay extra attention to the road.
"The nights for trick-or-treat can vary from community to community, so check out the dates for your community so that you're aware that you may be seeing children walking around the neighborhood during those hours for trick-or-treat night,” she said.
“Then put those distractions aside, put aside our cell phone. If we take our eyes off the road for just two seconds, it doubles our chances of being involved in a collision.”
In some cases, municipalities hold Halloween festivities on evenings before the actual holiday.
