Halloween is time for extra safety in front and behind the wheel

Special to the Daily Mail

COLUMBIA, Mo. --Halloween is always a time to take extra safety precautions -- including behind the wheel.

While the number one cause of injuries on Halloween night is accidental falls from tripping over hems of costumes, steps or curbs, four times more children are killed that night each year in pedestrian-automobile accidents than any other night of the year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Young trick-or-treaters should be escorted and closely watched," said Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri safety specialist. "They often wear dark costumes and can dart out in front of oncoming traffic." Motorists should slow down in residential neighborhoods, watch closely for children and be prepared to stop suddenly, she said. Kids often don't think of looking both ways. Halloween night also is a time of heavy traffic in residential areas.

Parents should instruct their children to stop at curbs, look left and right, wait for proper traffic signals, and stay away from behind parked cars. Kids should travel only in familiar areas and along established routes.

Bright-colored costumes are more visible to motorists. For darker costumes, use reflective tape on the costumes and shoes. Have kids carry a flashlight. While you check the batteries, it can remind you to change batteries in your home's smoke alarms, she said.

When it comes to the older kids, parents should plan a safe route and be sure to know where the kids are at all times. Set a time for their return home, she said. Make sure that the child is old enough and responsible enough to go out alone.

Stay in lighted areas and stop only at familiar houses in your neighborhood, she said. Let your children know that they should travel in a group when an adult is not with them.

Homeowners should be sure their yard is clear of things such as ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flower pots that can trip young children.

Battery powered jack o' lanterns are preferable to those using real flame. Put up pets to protect them from cars or from inadvertently biting a trick-or-treater.