Staying Safe This Halloween | Zimmerman & Frachtman

Halloween is a festive day, and it grows more popular every year. When you are a child, nothing is more fun than dressing up in costumes to receive free candy. When you are an adult, you can gather with your friends for cocktails and scary movies.

Most everyone is respectful of the holiday and wants it to remain harmless, but it is also a day full of inherent dangers. The simple act of trick-or-treating demands vigilance for both drivers and pedestrians.

Here is some advice that will help keep your Halloween safe and fun for everyone.

Consider Your Costumes

The coolest, most fun costumes can also create a risk. You must make sure that you have visibility, so wearing a mask is not the best choice. Face makeup and prosthetics are better as they don’t block your eyes.

Also, consider your movement. You don’t want an outfit that is too restrictive.

Think about the materials you are using. You want something breathable and non-flammable.

You also want a costume that others can see clearly, especially after night falls. Make sure you and the kids have reflective tape or glow sticks so cars can see you from afar.

Check All Candy Before Eating

Most candy tampering stories are urban myths. Even so, it’s a good idea to make sure candy is safe. Packaging may be broken, or your children may have food allergies. Make sure the kids don’t eat any before they get home, and check each piece before letting them have it.

Supervise All Ages

Small children should always be accompanied by a trusted adult. For older children, plan their route with them before letting them out on their own. Make sure they have a way to contact you if needed, and remind them to avoid going off with strangers or entering their cars or homes.

Stay Alert While Walking

It’s a good idea to have your cell phone with you while out, but you also need to put it away. Don’t have your face buried in a screen while walking the streets, and make sure your kids don’t do the same.

Florida has a reputation for poor traffic, and you should keep this fact in mind. Always stay alter at all crosswalks, and keep a close eye on any nearby cars.

Mind the Heat

Remember, you are still in Florida, and this October is likely to be warm. Make sure your costume is breathable. You should also try to keep cool drinks with you to stay hydrated.

Drive Safely

On the other side, you may need to travel to a house party, or perhaps you’ve chosen to work for a rideshare company on Halloween.

Here are some tips for drivers:

• Be extra careful when entering or exiting driveways and alleys.
• Always assume there are children present, and keep a close eye at all crosswalks.
• Remember that spooky costumes are usually dark, so be especially alert for little ones in black.
• If you are a new driver, find another ride. This is not the best time to put your driving skills to the test.
• DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE. It doesn’t matter if you’ve had only one drink. Even if you are below the legal limit, your driving is still impaired, and you could put a small child in serious danger.

Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A. is a personal injury law firm that cares about your safety. If you’ve been injured, you can contact us today by calling 954-509-1900 or filling out our online form.