State Farm Insurance is offering tips to ensure a safe and happy Halloween.
If going door-to-door, always accompany young children. Use caution between 5 and 9 p.m. Studies show the hour between 6-7 p.m. is dangerous for pedestrian accidents.
Stick to neighborhoods with sidewalks. If walking on the street, keep to the far left, facing traffic. Practice safe crossing procedures; use crosswalks, wait for corners and look left, right and left again before crossing.
Stick reflective tape onto costumes to make children more visible, and have him/her carry a flashlight. Make sure costumes and shoes are the correct size to prevent tripping. Use face paint and leave masks at home, as masks can obstruct vision; and if an older child is venturing out without supervision, ask him/her to go with a group. Discuss the route and agree on a curfew. Give older kids cell phones so they can stay in touch.
If driving, be alert for children and eliminate in-car distractions; drive slowly; practice extra caution at intersections and corners; and pull in and out of driveways carefully.
If handing out treats, keep homes brightly lit; clear debris and obstacles from lawn, sidewalks and steps; opt for battery-operated candles in jack-o’-lanterns and keep pets kenneled or in another room.