According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of deaths among young pedestrians increases 4.5 times nationally on Halloween evening compared to other nights within the year. Children Trick-or-Treating tend to cross streets at mid-block rather than at corners or crosswalks, putting them at risk for pedestrian injury.
County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Thomas C. Krumpter advise drivers to be on particular alert, stop completely at all stop signs, drive slow, and proceed with extreme caution.
Tips for Trick-or-Treaters
- Trick-or-Treat by going to all houses on one side of the street, cross at the corner, and then go down the other side, thereby minimizing the amount of time spent dashing across dark streets.
- Trick-or-Treat in groups, in well-lit neighborhoods and stay on the sidewalk at all times. Obey traffic signals and don’t cut across yards or driveways.
- Carry a flashlight and make sure costumes are bright and don’t drag on the ground. Wear shoes that fit and avoid wearing masks that obstruct your vision.
- Stay away from strangers, and animals you don’t know. Young children should be accompanied by an adult. Older children not being escorted by an adult should carry a cell phone and have in their possession some form of identification. It is suggested children wear a watch that can be read in the dark.
Tips for Parents
- Parents should have a detailed description of what their child is wearing and know exactly where they will be going.
- Always advise children at what time to be home and where parents can be reached.
Tips for Homeowners
- Make sure your yard is clear of ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flowerpots that can trip Trick-or- Treater’s.
- Pets get frightened on Halloween, so its best to keep them protected from inadvertently biting a Trick-or- Treater.
- Battery powered jack o’lantern candles are preferable to real flames.
The Nassau County Police Department will also be utilizing marked and unmarked patrol vehicles to deter malicious property damages and other potential unlawful incidents but mainly to make sure your child is safe.