Have a Happy Halloween from The Yost Legal Group

Halloween is right around the corner, and children and families throughout Maryland are preparing their costumes and decorating their homes for a frightful, fun night.

Even though Halloween is a fun holiday for kids and families to enjoy, there are important safety tips that you should discuss with your children. At The Yost Legal Group we want everyone to have a fun filled, and safe Halloween.

Whether you plan to trick or treat throughout your neighborhood, attend a costume party with your friends, or stay at home to hand out treats here are some important safety tips to remember.

Pedestrian Accidents

Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrian accidents.

• Make sure an adult accompanies younger children while trick or treating
• Remind your kids to always look both ways before crossing the street
• Do not jay walk, cross at cross streets
• Be careful of costumes that are long and dragging on the ground. These could cause a child to fall
• Stay Visible – it is important to always remain visible on Halloween. If your child is wearing a dark costume and walking after dark, make sure to bring a flashlight or wear a reflective vest/tape in order to help alert motorists.
• Use the Sidewalk – pedestrians should use the sidewalk as much as possible and avoid walking in the street.
• Due to the high volume of people as well as motorists on the road using the sidewalk can greatly reduce the risk of being hit by a car.
• Use the Buddy System – while trick-or-treating it is important to always use the buddy system and travel in groups; there is safety in numbers!
• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds
• Agree on a specific time when children should return home

Drunk Driving Accidents

NEVER Drink& Drive – Lots of people have Halloween parties to celebrate with friends and family. Regardless of how much you may drink at a party, never get behind the wheel of a vehicle.

• Always have a designated driver
• Or use a car service if you have been drinking
• Or just stay put and sleep over
• Never get behind the wheel after you have been drinking

Abductions

With many children and young adults out for treat or treat, there may be predators lurking. Remind your kids, that no matter what, a stranger is someone they do not know. And if someone tries to talk to them, or calls them to come over to a vehicle, no matter what, if they do not know the person, just ignore them and walk in the opposite direction.

Candy Safety

A few simple rules with candy safety.

• Teach your children to never enter a stranger’s home
• Throw away any opened candy, any wrap that does not look secure, just throw out
• Any unwrapped candy throw out

At The Yost Legal Group we want to wish everyone a Safe and Happy Halloween!

Remember to travel in groups, use the sidewalk and NEVER drink and drive!