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Updated: Nov 25th, 2007 - 10:09:00 |
Halloween: Fun for Kids, Worrisome for Adults
The Insurance Information Institute Offers Safety Advice
INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE
Contact: Press Offices
New York: 212-346-5500; media@iii.org
Washington, D.C.: 202-833-1580
NEW YORK, October 23, 2006 — Halloween is a big treat for kids of all ages but can be a big worry for parents and motorists. Parents can minimize risks this October 31 by making sure their trick-or-treating youngsters follow some safety tips, advises the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).
Smart parents can ensure a safe Halloween by accompanying small children around the neighborhood. If your children are old enough to explore the neighborhood on their own, advise them to visit homes where they know they will be welcome. If the house looks dark and uninviting, tell the kids to stay away.
At home, parents should also leave the porch light on once darkness falls. It is a signal that you welcome kids and also will help to brighten the neighborhood.
Parents should warn children to stay on the sidewalks and to cross the streets carefully. It is also a good idea to put reflective tape on costumes and trick-or-treat bags and to arrange for youngsters to go out in groups rather than alone.
Here are more safety tips:
- Make sure costumes fit properly; loose-fitting costumes can cause a child to trip and fall.
- Use make-up instead of masks. Some masks can obstruct a child’s vision.
- Make sure all costumes are made of non-flammable materials.
- Keep lighted jack-o’-lanterns and candles away from children and flammable materials.
- Inspect all treats before allowing children to eat them.
Each year, the clock is turned back the Sunday before Halloween in almost every state, as daylight savings time ends. This means that it will be dark in much of the country by 5:00 p.m. and because of school, many youngsters will be canvassing neighborhoods for treats after dark. Motorists need to remember that kids may be distracted by all the costumes and candy.
The I.I.I. urges motorists to drive slowly in residential areas and to honk their horns on dimly lit streets to alert children. Drivers also need to watch out for youngsters crossing against the light, darting out from between parked cars and walking in the street.
For information about insurance, go to the I.I.I. Web site: http://www.iii.org .
The I.I.I. is a nonprofit, communications organization supported by the insurance industry.
