ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions twice per week in a segment called “Ask Trooper Steve.”
Trooper Steve on Thursday was asked, “What are some Halloween safety tips we don’t think about?”
Every year around Halloween, we hear the same safety reminders, check your candy, wear bright costumes and watch for cars. But there are several simple things that often go unnoticed and could make the biggest difference when it comes to keeping everyone safe.
Let’s start with costumes. If your child’s outfit is all black or dark-colored, add reflective tape or a glow stick... not just to the front but also to the sides and back. Headlights don’t always hit straight on, and visibility from multiple angles can make all the difference.
[VIDEO BELOW: Suspect takedown at Red Bug and Tuskawilla in Seminole County]
Next, for the parents, this one’s for you. Stay off the road. Many adults walk alongside their kids in the street, thinking it’s safer. In reality, it puts everyone in a driver’s blind spot. The safest move is to stick to sidewalks and driveways whenever possible.
Speaking of driveways, that’s one of the most overlooked dangers on Halloween night. Vehicles backing out don’t always see small trick-or-treaters, especially when it’s dark or the driveway is sloped. Walk ahead of your children when crossing a driveway, not behind them. That small change can prevent serious incidents.
Drivers, this one’s easy, turn on your headlights early, even before sunset. It improves visibility for everyone and helps trick-or-treaters see you coming before you even get close.
And finally, secure your pets. With all the door knocking, costumes and excitement, even the calmest dogs can get spooked. Keeping them in a separate room away from the front door prevents accidents, bites and those late-night searches for a runaway pup.
Halloween should be fun, not frightening for the wrong reasons. A few simple adjustments and extra attention to these overlooked details can make the night safer for everyone and ensure all the scares stay where they belong.
[SEE YOUR HALLOWEEN FORECAST BELOW]