Keep your children safe this Halloween

Milford Police Department offers safety tips for Trick or Treat

Milford City Council officially approved October 31 as Trick or Treat night throughout the city. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Halloween is one of the most dangerous holidays for children as there are more child pedestrian deaths than any other holiday. Milford Police Department wants all children who will be participating in the event to be safe and have suggested some tips for parents.

“Although dark colored costumes are fun, they can be difficult for drivers to see. If your child wants to wear a dark costume, be sure to add some type of reflective materials that will make the child more visible,” Sgt. Timothy Maloney, Public Information Officer, said. “Carrying a flashlight or glowsticks is another way to make them more visible.”

If your child’s Halloween costume includes the family pet, place a reflective collar or vest on the animal for better visibility. Often, parents will push smaller children in a stroller or pull them in a wagon. As added safety, reflective stickers on the back of those vehicles is highly recommended.

“Always use crosswalks if they are available,” Maloney said. “Walk on the sidewalk unless one is not available. If that is the case, walk facing traffic. Older children not walking with their parents should remain in groups and stay in populated areas. Also, remember that houses giving out candy will turn on a porch or outside light, so only go to those homes to trick or treat.”

Never go inside a stranger’s home for candy and wait to eat anything until arriving home, Maloney cautioned. It is suggested that all trick-or-treaters carry flashlights and identification, especially if they are not with parents. Weapons should be flexible to avoid inujuring others.

“Drivers also need to take precautions on Thursday evening,” Maloney warned. “Drive below the speed limit in residential areas and take extra time to look for children who may dart across the road without looking. When entering or exiting driveways, go very slowly and look both ways several times. Check backup cameras as well as rearview and side mirrors more than once before backing up.”

When driving on Thursday, it is more important than ever to avoid distractions. Turn cell phones off or on silent unless there is a completely hands-free option in the vehicle, Maloney pointed out.

Although research indicates that reports of candy tainted with drugs or containing sharp objects like needles or razor blades have been refuted as urban legends over the years, parents should still check what their children bring home after trick or treating. Check to be sure nothing looks tampered with or that packaging has not come open in transit. Any candy or other treats that do not appear factory sealed should be discarded.

These tips can not only help protect children who are enjoying the event, but also keep drivers safe.