FORT WAYNE, Ind. – As Halloween approaches, the American Red Cross reminds families in Fort Wayne that the night brings a heightened risk for children on the streets. Statistics show that children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Local parents, drivers and pet owners are urged to follow the Red Cross’s practical safety recommendations.
Make children visible
Visibility is the first line of defense. The Red Cross advises parents to choose light‑colored costumes, add reflective tape to outfits and treat bags, and consider face makeup instead of masks that can obscure facial features. Costumes should be flame‑resistant and short enough to prevent trips and falls. Battery‑operated lights or glow sticks in pumpkins are safer than candles, and decorative contact lenses should be avoided because they can injure the eyes.
Pedestrian safety after dark
Trick‑or‑treaters should stay on sidewalks whenever possible. When sidewalks are unavailable, children should walk along the edge of the road facing traffic, look both ways before crossing, and use corners or marked crosswalks rather than cutting through yards or alleys. Carrying a flashlight and walking, not running, can further reduce the chance of accidents.
Adult supervision and route planning
Parents are encouraged to accompany younger children while they collect candy. Older children who go out without an adult should have a clearly planned route and a set return time. The Red Cross also recommends that children only approach homes with porch lights on, accept treats at the door and never enter a stranger’s residence.
Inspect candy before consumption
Before candy is eaten, parents should discard opened packages, remove loose pieces and watch for potential choking hazards. Anything that looks questionable should be thrown away.
Driver vigilance
Drivers need to be especially alert after dark, as excited children may cross streets unexpectedly and costumes can make pedestrians harder to see. Residents hosting trick‑or‑treaters should keep porches, walkways and entrances well lit, sweep leaves from sidewalks and steps, and remove obstacles that could cause falls.
Safe transportation for party guests
Adults planning Halloween parties should provide non‑alcoholic beverage options and arrange safe rides for any guests who have been drinking. Designated drivers, taxis, ride‑sharing services or another sober driver should be organized before the celebration begins.
Protecting pets
Pets also need protection on Halloween night. The Red Cross suggests keeping animals in a separate area during parties or trick‑or‑treating to reduce stress and prevent escapes. Chocolate and many candies are toxic to pets, so treats should be kept out of reach. Pet costumes should only be used if the animal is comfortable and the outfit does not restrict movement, breathing, vision or hearing.
Pet safety basics
Pet owners should ensure animals wear identification tags, use a secure leash outdoors and consider a reflective collar if the pet will be outside after dark.
By following these straightforward steps, Fort Wayne families can enjoy a festive, fun‑filled Halloween while keeping children, drivers and pets safe from preventable accidents.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
