Image courtesy Canva

With Halloween near, Kansas safety officials are urging families to take precautions to prevent injuries and ensure a fun holiday. Safe Kids Kansas, the Kansas Poison Center, and the Kansas State Fire Marshal emphasize that many Halloween injuries are preventable with a few simple steps.

Child pedestrian accidents are more common on Halloween than any other night, so drivers are advised to slow down and stay alert. Parents should review safety rules with their children and ensure kids under 12 are accompanied by an adult or responsible teen. Older children should stick to familiar, well-lit routes, travel in groups, and carry a cell phone without being distracted.

Officials also recommend costume and visibility precautions, including flame-resistant costumes, reflective tape, flashlights, and properly sized outfits to prevent trips and falls. Candy safety is also important, only eat treats in unopened packaging and keep medicines out of reach.

Home fire safety is another priority. Nearly half of Halloween home fires involve decorations near heat sources, often candles. Experts suggest using battery-powered lights and keeping smoke and carbon monoxide alarms working.

Finally, families are reminded to walk safely on sidewalks or roads facing traffic, cross streets at corners, and be alert for vehicles, especially between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m.

For more safety tips, visit safekids.org.