SALT LAKE CITY — All sorts of creepy and scary creatures are expected to be out and about on Halloween. But things can turn really scary in an instant if parents, drivers and children aren’t paying attention.
Twice as many children are hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year, according to the Utah Department of Health. One reason is that kids will be out while it’s dark, making it harder for drivers to see them. And because they’re excited about getting candy, they may not be watching out for cars.
The department is urging both parents and drivers to do their part in helping kids stay out of harm's way.
While pedestrian safety is a huge concern on Halloween, the department is also urging parents to remind children to only eat treats in original and unopened wrappers after an adult has looked at it for signs of tampering.
Some other trick-or-treating tips from the department include:
• Always trick-or-treat with an adult until at least age 12.
• Only trick-or-treat in familiar areas that are well lit.
• Never enter homes or apartments unless accompanied by a parent or an adult.
• Cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
• Make eye contact with drivers and watch for cars that are turning or backing up.
• Walk on sidewalks or paths.
• Never dart out into the street or cross in between parked cars.
• Wear face paint and makeup; a mask can restrict vision
• Wear light-colored, flame-retardant costumes decorated with retro-reflective tape or stickers. Bags or sacks should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape.
• Wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes to prevent trips and falls.
• Swords, knives and similar costume accessories should be of soft and flexible material.
• Carry a flashlight or glow stick to increase visibility to drivers.