rap #220 10/19/09

HAVE A SAFE AND SPOOKY HALLOWEEN

THERE’S NOTHING wrong with a little fright on Halloween, as long as it’s caused by a howling werewolf, shrieking ghost or the passing headless horseman.

“Let’s ensure all of our Halloween scares are the fun kind,” said Ocean County Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari. “Working together, we can keep the holiday safe and enjoyable for all of our little ghosts, princesses and superheroes.

Vicari, who is liaison to the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs, asked parents to follow a few simple rules to protect their children who will soon be the prowl for candy.

“Before they leave for trick-or-treat, check your child’s costume to make sure it’s safe,” he said. “Also talk to your children about the dangers of eating their treats before they’re checked by an adult.”

Vicari offered these additional suggestions for a safe Halloween:

  • An adult should accompany young children.
  • Trick-or-treat only on well-lit streets.
  • Teach children to use sidewalks or walk on the grass. Never walk on the shoulder of a road.
  • Costumes should be made with light-colored material. Use reflective tape on costumes and trick-or-treat bags.
  • Masks can obscure a child’s vision, use facial make-up instead.
  • Children should carry flashlights.
  • Parents should teach children to walk and not run as they go from house to house.
  • Children should wear only flame-resistant costumes.

    Vicari also asked that motorists pay special attention when driving on trick-or-treat night.

    “If children are out while you are driving, slow down and be extra careful of children walking along the side of the road,” he said. “Some children will wear dark costumes and may be difficult to see.”

    According to federal statistics, children are four times more likely to be struck by an automobile on Halloween than on any other night of the year.

    Vicari said an act of Congress has made it easier to collect those treats and be home before the sun sets.

    Beginning in 2007, the last day of Daylight Savings Time was pushed back a week, until after Halloween.

    This year, the clocks will be turned back one hour on November 1.

    “If possible, children should trick-or-treat during the daylight hours,” Vicari said. “If children must go out at night, it’s critical that parents ensure their children are visible to passing motorists.”