Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Halloween Safety Tips Given

There will be plenty of ghosts and goblins lurking this Halloween.

Coordinator for the Arkansas Coalition For Vehicle Choice (CVC) wants to remind all trick-or-treaters, both young and old, to stay safe while celebrating Halloween night.

In most areas, trick-or-treating begins after sundown, so it's harder for motorist to see them.

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that last year, 112 people were involved in traffic-related fatalities on Halloween night. And, of these, 10 were child passengers of vehicles and seven were child pedestrains, all under the age of 15.

"That's a good reason why small children should always be accompanied by an adult while trick-or-treating in neighborhoods," Lydia Robertson, coordinator of CVC, said. "Have kids walk in groups as they go out. Holding hands to form a chain can be fun, and it helps make sure children stay in a bunch as they cross the streest."

In addition, she suggested these practices:

• Look left and right before crossing streets to make sure cars are not coming.

• Cross only at intersections and not mid-block.

• Stay on well-lit, well traveled routes.

• Walk and do not run from house to house.

• Carry a light so others can see you. `Glow in the dark' light sticks are available that allow kids to bend the wand to "energize" non- toxic glowing substance that can be used just like a candle, only safer because it's not a flame.

• Reflective strips or patches also make the little ones' costumes more visible to motorists who might have a hard time seeing them on dark neighborhood streets.

Motorists and pedestrians alike must do their part and follow proper safety rules to make Halloween nigh safe from careless accidents. So drives should remember:

• Don't speed, obey all posted speed limits.

• Use extra caution to watch out for children in residential areas.

• Be alert for people darting in and out of streets in costumes.