Happy Halloween

• Make sure your children wear bright, reflective or fluorescent clothing to make them more conspicuous to cars and other pedestrians. Scotchlite reflective trims are now incorporated into children's clothing and accessory ranges by most high street shops.
• Encourage your children to use face paint instead of wearing a mask. If your child does have a mask, make sure it fits properly and the holes for eyes and ears don't obscure vision or hearing.
• Children should avoid wearing long, baggy costumes, or oversized shoes to reduce the likelihood of tripping.
• Tell your kids to stay on the pavement and instruct them to cross the street only at zebra or pelican crossings and in well-lit areas. Make sure they are familiar with the Green Cross Code and aware that cars don't necessarily stop just because someone is on the road.
• Be aware that drivers may find it harder to see you in the dark.
• Under no circumstance should children enter the house of a stranger when trick or treating.

In addition to sharing these tips with your children, check out DTLR's new website www.hedgehogs.gov.uk, launching on 18th October in conjunction with their 'Be Safe, Be Seen' campaign aimed at children between ages 7 and 11. As part of this initiative, this new site will include interactive games that teach kids about road safety and awareness.

Order a free copy of the new junior Highway Code booklet Arrive Alive, which includes road safety tips, by ringing 0870 1226 236.