NEW CITY, NY — With Halloween right around the corner, the Rockland County Department of Health is reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and keep safety top of mind while enjoying the holiday’s festivities.
Halloween brings excitement for children and families eager to dress up, trick-or-treat, and take part in community events. However, health officials warn that the evening also carries higher risks, particularly for pedestrians. According to Safe Kids Worldwide™, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
“While dressing up and going trick-or-treating is fun, there are risks,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “By planning ahead and talking with children about safe walking and visibility, we can help ensure a fun, safe night for everyone.”
To help prevent accidents and injuries, the Department of Health recommends the following Halloween safety tips:
For Trick-or-Treaters and Families:
- Stay visible: Carry flashlights or glow sticks and use reflective tape on costumes and treat bags.
- Choose bright costumes: Light-colored outfits make it easier for drivers to spot children.
- Use sidewalks: Walk on sidewalks when possible. If there are none, stay on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Cross safely: Use crosswalks or intersections and avoid running out from between parked cars.
- Look both ways: Check left, right, and left again before crossing; make eye contact with drivers.
- Limit distractions: Put phones and earbuds away while walking.
- Travel in groups: Children should go trick-or-treating with trusted adults or caregivers. Visit only well-lit homes and never enter a stranger’s house or vehicle.
- Review pedestrian rules: Go over basic street safety before heading out.
For Drivers:
- Slow down: Drive carefully in residential areas, especially during peak trick-or-treating hours.
- Stay alert: Watch for children near intersections, driveways, and parked cars.
- Turn on headlights early: Increase visibility for yourself and for pedestrians.
- Avoid distractions: Keep phones and other distractions away while driving.
The Department encourages families to make safety a shared responsibility this Halloween to ensure everyone enjoys the night’s festivities without incident.
For more information about Halloween and pedestrian safety, visit Safe Kids Worldwide™ and the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.