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Happy Halloween

by Malia Frame
Trick or treat? How to keep the kids safe on Halloween

trickOn Halloween, there'll there be lots of children walking the streets dressed up as ghosts, witches and goblins. Scary they may be, but most parents' fears are based on something far more down to earth: the safety of their children.

According to the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (DTLR), every day more than 10 children are killed or seriously injured as a result of road accidents. In fact, road-specific incidents are the leading cause of accidental injury or death among children and young people in Britain.

In addition, we turn the clocks back on 26th October, so it will be getting dark earlier on Hallowe'en evening.

'This is a particularly dangerous time of year for road safety as drivers are trying to get used to darker nights, reduced visibility and inclement weather,' says Roger Vincent, Senior Press Officer for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). There is usually an increase in motor accidents at this time of year and children are among the most vulnerable,' he adds.

Despite these disturbing statistics, there's no reason to panic. The key is preparing yourself and your children for potential dangers. Follow these guidelines to make sure your children have a safe Hallowe'en experience both on and off the road:

  • Educate your children about the risks of being on the road, and accompany them trick or treating if necessary. Don't overestimate your child's ability to negotiate traffic independently. For older children, an adult escort may not be necessary, but ensure that they go out in groups of at least three.
  • Plan your child's trick or treat route in a well-known, well-lit neighbourhood.
  • A little torch is a good idea for those dark streets or gardens - it will also help add to the atmosphere of the occasion.


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