O Scary Night

Halloween is a night of fun, filled with candy and creative costumes.

It's also one of the most accident-prone holidays. Keep your ghosts and goblins safe this Halloween by following these tips.

• Brighten the night. Use glow sticks or flashlights to be more visible to drivers. According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrians are 50% more likely to die on Halloween than on any other day. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers.

• Avoid fire. Make sure that costume materials are flame-resistant. Homeowners are encouraged to keep candles and jack-o-

lanterns away from the path of trick-or-treaters.

• Be costume cautious. Masks need to have a good level of visibility. Avoid long costumes that drag along the ground as these are a trip hazard.

• Go as a group. Create a planned route. Young children should go with a trusted adult.

• Check the treats. Avoid eating sweet treats until trick-or-treaters arrive home, making sure everything is safe to eat. If you have allergies, make sure others in the group are aware, as well as those dishing out the goodies.

• Look out for lenses. Decorative contact lenses can cause infections. Look for FDA-approved contact lenses.

• Ditch the devices. Put electronic devices down and keep heads up while walking. Use crosswalks whenever possible.

• Use extra caution. Drive slowly and be alert in residential neighborhoods, looking out for children who may not be looking for you. Pay attention when backing out of driveways.