DPS, Red Cross Offer Tips For A Safe, Fun Halloween
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Halloween is one of the spookiest days of the year, and not just because of the costumes.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, twice as many kids are killed as pedestrians by cars on Halloween than any other day of the year.
So, while you're preparing your potions and stitching up the final touches on your costumes, DPS and The Red Cross are reminding parents to talk to their kids about trick-or-treating safety.
For kids going out without parents, Red Cross suggests the parents know the route their children are taking ahead of time.
They also remind kids to only go to homes that have a porch light and to never go inside a house.
Trick-or-treaters should stay on the sidewalks and should avoid alleyways and yards. If sidewalks aren't available, walk on the edge of the road going against traffic.
And be careful around animals!
DPS is reminding kids and parents to be safe around open flames.
Use battery operated candles or glow sticks inside of Jack-O-Lanterns. If there are families or houses that choose to use open flames, remember to keep decorations away from any ignition source. Also, remind kids to stay away from open flames.
DPS also said, if possible, avoid costumes with long or billowing fabric as these can easily catch fire without notice. And the Red Cross suggests that reflective tape also be added to costumes and trick-or-treat bags to help adults better see kids.
Finally, always remember to look both ways before crossing the street.
For more tips, visit the Minnesota Safety Council or the Minnesota Department of Public Safety online.
Happy Halloween!
