As Halloween approaches, Mitchel Ashley, Lawyer, renowned personal injury attorney with The Ashley Law Firm advocates for safety. As a legal expert committed to safeguarding the rights of accident victims, he underscores the importance of raising awareness and advocating for preventive measures in our communities.
How to stay safe on Halloween: Halloween is a thrilling night, full of vibrant costumes, delicious treats and surrounding yourself with your community, but it’s also important to keep safety at the forefront of your festivities. While lots of the holiday activities take place after dark, it can also present a few hazards that can cause a turn of events for these intended fun festivities if we are not cautious. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, hosting a party, or enjoying a fall event, here are some essential tips to ensure a safe, injury free and enjoyable Halloween!
Mitchel Ashley shares his tips to help prevent common personal injuries on this Holiday:
1. Choose Costumes Wisely: Opt for costumes that are not only fun and creative but also safe. Before the big night, make sure your costume fits well—avoid long capes, oversized shoes, or flowing pants and skirts that can easily cause tripping. If your costume includes a mask, ensure it allows you to see clearly, or alternatively, consider using face paint for better visibility.
2. Be Bright, Be Seen: Visibility is crucial on Halloween night. Whether you’re out trick-or-treating or attending a festive event, wear bright, reflective costumes, or accessories to make yourself easily visible to drivers and other pedestrians at night. For added safety, carry a flashlight or use glow sticks to help light your way.
3. Trick-or-Treating Team: Adult supervision is key. Always go trick-or-treating in groups and set ground rules with your group. Establish a buddy system for kids: they’ll have more fun and stay safer with friends along. Young children should always stay on the sidewalk and never run into the street. This is a great time to teach them the importance of staying together, holding hands when crossing the street and looking both ways to watch for cars. It is really important to teach these safety tips to kids young when they are out later than usual in low visibility to avoid getting hurt.
4. Plan Your Trick-or-Treat Route: Before heading out, map out a safe route for trick-or-treating. Make sure to be mindful of any curbs or changes in the path to avoid tripping and falling. Stick to familiar neighborhoods, and only visit homes that are well-lit to avoid any accidents. Once you set a specific route, communicate when everyone will return home so plans are clear.
5. Stay Aware of Traffic: Being mindful of your surroundings is crucial. Remember to always use well-lit sidewalks when available, and cross streets at crosswalks and at corners. Make eye contact with drivers before proceeding. It is equally important to be aware of passing driveways to avoid cars pulling out of their driveway and not seeing you as well as being aware when moving between parked cars.
6. Driver Awareness: If you’re driving, remain extra cautious on Halloween night. There are so many more people out walking after typical hours and in the dark. Reduced speed limits in costume-heavy neighborhoods and heightened awareness for unexpected little kids crossing are key to preventing accidents.
7. Decorate with Safety in Mind: When decorating your home, keep potential hazards in mind. Use non-flammable materials to avoid fire hazards, ensure decorations are securely placed and clear of walking paths to avoid tripping by trick or treaters to prevent accidents. Ensure that all extension cords are secured, and the decorations don’t obstruct walkways. Check that any outdoor lights are in good working condition. If you’re using jack-o’-lanterns, keep them on flat surfaces and away from pathways to reduce fire risks.
As a passionate advocate for integrity and safety, Mitchel has dedicated his career to helping those affected by preventable accidents. Halloween is intended to be a fun holiday and is a time to embrace the spooky atmosphere, but by following these safety tips, you’ll ensure that your celebration is also a safe one. So, dress up, grab your treats, and enjoy all the thrills October 31st has to offer, knowing you’ve taken steps to stay safe! Happy Halloween!
Leave a Reply