The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that Halloween is consistently one of the top three days for pedestrian injuries and fatalities. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that children are four times more likely to be struck by a motor vehicle on Halloween than any other day of the year.
“This is a weekend where there’s going to be a lot of vehicular and pedestrian traffic,” Utica Police Sgt. Michael Curley said. “We certainly don’t want any kids getting hit or be in any precarious situation where there’s any danger to be had. Trick-or-treat with light-colored vests, always have a flashlight [and] use the sidewalks if possible. We’re asking the motorists, please be very vigilant of the groups of kids out, let them enjoy their time.”
What You Need To Know
- With a lot of excitement around Halloween comes safety
- Sgt. Michael Curley from the Utica Police Department gives safety tips to parents this weekend
- As the pandemic continues, the American Red Cross is reminding parents that children should make up and avoid trick-or-treating in large groups
- Curley says police officers will be around if there are question or concerns about candy
Curley says the city is asking that children to trick-or-treat between 4 and 7 p.m.
“We’re asking that any kids older than 12 years old that want to exert any freedom in Halloween and we know that they do, please know the route that you’re going on,” Curley said. “Use a flashlight, carry a cell phone with you.”
He says children should wait until they return home to eat their candy. Curley also says police officers will be around if there are questions or concerns about candy.
Dressing up and receiving candy is always an exciting time. However, Halloween is consistently one of the top three days for pedestrian injuries and fatalities (The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Tune into @SPECNews1CNY for Halloween Safety Tips. pic.twitter.com/94DoRMWqS7
— Shalon Stevens (@shalonstevenstv) October 30, 2021
“We’re going to have extra police patrols in every zone this year, there’s going to be an extra car everywhere,” Curley said. “Just making sure everyone has a safe and fun Halloween and make sure there are no problems or anything of that nature. If you see a police officer and you need anything, please don’t hesitate to stop. Ask them for any additional information you may need or any assistance you may need with the Halloween holiday.”
He says trick-or-treaters often forget about safety, so motorists and parents should be more alert. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the American Red Cross is reminding parents that children should make up and avoid trick-or-treating in large groups. The organization also suggests bringing hand sanitizer while going door to door.
