Salt Lake Community College Institute of Public Safety Associate Dean Gary Cox talked about Halloween safety on Ch. 4. Below is a summary of what Cox and Ch. 4 anchor Glen Mills discussed.
Ch. 4 anchor Glen Mills (left) and Gary Cox
Whether you celebrate Halloween by decorating and taking
part in the giving or receiving of sweet treats or if you’re just traveling
about that evening, there are ways everyone can make this popular night much
safer for all.
1.
Getting around. Walk, don’t run, stick to
sidewalks and only cross streets in designated crosswalks or, if there are
none, cross at the ends of streets. If you’re driving around, do not exceed the
speed limit and consider driving well under the speed limit in residential
areas to give yourself plenty of time to slow down or stop if someone darts in
front of your vehicle.
2.
See and be seen. Trick-or-treaters should
consider costume choices that involve bright colors and reflective accessories
or add-ons to their costumes that help them be seen by motorists. Carrying
flashlights and glow sticks are also good ideas, not only to be more visible
but also to help navigate dark and often uneven terrain along sidewalks and
yards. Finally, don’t choose a mask or costume that obscures your vision – you
could trip and injure yourself or miss seeing an oncoming vehicle.
3.
Safety in numbers. Trick-or-treat with friends
and neighbors who can help you in case you fall and are injured. Groups of
tick-or-treaters are also less likely to be approached by someone intent on
doing harm than if you were alone on the streets.
4.
Take tech along. Smart phones have apps or
built-in technology that allows authorized users to track the locations of
participating cell phones. You might also consider using walkie-talkies to keep
in touch.
5.
Alternatives. Consider alternatives if you’re
more comfortable visiting businesses that offer trick-or-treating or visit your
nearest trunk-or-treat event.