Every year, a few days before Halloween, news reports abound telling parents to inspect the treats their children get when “trick-or-treating” to be sure they have not been infused with foreign bodies or poison. Parents throw out any candy that looks like the wrapper has been tampered with. Urban legends surface citing stories about razor blades being hidden in apples. Homemade goodies are thrown in the trash to avoid the remote possibility that they have been poisoned.
Whether or not concerns about eating tainted candy are well-founded, there are some legitimate safety issues surrounding Halloween that need to be taken seriously. When people, especially children, are outside at night in the dark, there are inherent risks that can be avoided or at least minimized.
- Put reflectors on costumes, especially on your children’s costumes. Adults and children walk outside in the dark on Halloween and it is difficult for drivers to see them. Many trick-or-treaters wear dark costumes that make it difficult for motorists to see. Children dressed as witches wear black gowns and hats, and those that pretend to be the grim reaper dress in black. Children dressed as vampires or zombies wear black. Parents walking with their children try to stay hidden and wear dark colors. Reflectors allow drivers to see the costume and the person. They are an important factor in preventing pedestrian accidents.
- Give your child a flashlight and use one yourself. This will illuminate the sidewalk and reveal any bumps or cracks or uneven places that might not be seen in the dark causing you or your child to trip and fall.
- Beware of burns. People who are ordinarily cautious during the year seem to throw caution to the wind and put candles everywhere: inside jack-o-lanterns on the porch and scattered about in haunted houses. They line the edges of sidewalks leading to the home. Store-bought costumes are often flammable and catch fire and result in serious burns to the child wearing the outfit.
No matter what safety precautions are taken, every year at Halloween, accidents happen. Pedestrians are hit by negligent drivers. Children trip while walking in the dark and are injured. Costumes burst into flame causing serious injury to the wearer.
If you or your child is injured in a Halloween mishap, you need the services of Todd Miner, an Orlando personal injury lawyer. He will evaluate the facts surrounding your injury and help you pursue your claim. He has the experience necessary to see to it that you receive all the compensation to which you are entitled.
