What could be better than knocking on doors and having complete strangers give you free candy? Not much. It is a night of fun and excitement for children of all ages.

Unfortunately, it is also a night where children are at increased risk of being hit by a car. Every year children are seriously injured and killed due to pedestrian accidents.  Children trick or treat at night, often wearing dark colored costumes and masks obstructing their vision. They are excited and distracted forgetting to pay attention to driveways or when crossing the street.  But this is where good defensive parenting can come in.

1. Make sure costumes are do not hinder a child's ability to walk or see.
2. Opt for face paint in place of full masks, which can obstruct a child's vision.
3. Try to choose lighter colored, or reflective clothing.
4. Use glow in the dark accessories such as bracelets or necklaces. (These can often be found in the dollar section at Micheal's or Target.)
5. Carry a flashlight.
6. Talk to your children about street safety before going out trick or treating.

• Cross at the corner
• Don't dart out into the street between parked cars
• Look both ways before crossing
• Make eye contact with the driver before crossing in front of a car
• Be aware of driveways
• Pay attention! Don't talk on the phone, text or email while crossing the street.

Have a Happy, Fun and Safe Halloween.