I will take another break from my engine to the truck series, to ensure that we talk about Saturday, Oct. 31, otherwise known as Halloween. I am amazed that some consider Halloween their favorite day of the year. It is important that I write about this, with the intent of getting people to think about the scores of children that may be out on the roadway.
A few safety tips for those that will be out that night are:
- Make sure that you go out with your children
- Make sure that you have a good flashlight
- Reflective material, either sewn into the costume or worn with the costume is important
Motorists need to use extreme caution, if driving the streets that evening. Though the speed limit in most subdivisions is 25 MPH, you may want to drive slower because of the number of people out on that evening. Pedestrians have the right-of-way, but even more importantly, no child or adult needs to be run over by a vehicle. Drive defensively and watch out for Trick or Treaters!
If you allow your children to go door-to-door and get candy, you must check that candy. There are many places that offer to scan or x-ray candy. It is sad that we live in a world where people try to hurt others, for no reason other than just plain evil. Though it is probably the exception rather than the norm, you must not say that it couldn’t happen in my neighborhood. Check every piece of candy and do not accept fruit.
Based on the previous paragraph, many choose to take their children to a fall festival, usually held at a church. These are family-friendly events that keep children off the streets and provide a safe alternative to Halloween. You can refer to church websites or call local churches to see if they are holding a fall festival.