Help keep kids safe this Halloween

Share safety tips with children, and be extra vigilant while driving tonight

Few days rival Halloween when it comes to kids’ excitement levels.

They get all dressed up, celebrate at school, then tonight, they take to the streets in search of Halloween treats, all the while trying to avoid any tricks.

Halloween is fun and festive, as children race from house to house in packs. And while they are having fun, sometimes, their common sense steps out for a little while. And Yuma, that’s where we need your help.

Sometimes, our little friends might forget to look both ways when crossing the street. They may dart across a driveway without first checking to make sure that a car isn’t backing out.

Tonight of all nights, folks, it’s important to be extra vigilant, and keep an eye out for those trick-or-treating families out and about. Drive slowly, especially through neighborhoods, and be prepared.

And parents, there are a few safety tips to share with your children, to help them stay safe.

• Wear light, reflective costumes, or add some reflective tape to the costumes to make them more visible once the sun goes down • Wear glow sticks and carry flashlights • If your child is wearing a mask, make sure he or she can see out of it properly, and that it doesn’t obscure their vision

• Plan a route in advance, so you know where your kids will be

• Talk to your kids about roadway safety, and remind them to be careful

• Send your kids out with a group, or out with a trusted adult • Only knock on doors or homes with porch lights on For those families looking for a different adventure, just a reminder that the Yuma Police Department will hold its 8th Annual Scary and Safe Trick or Treat at the Yuma County Fairgrounds, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. tonight. The event moved from the Yuma Territorial Prison this year, so heads up, readers!

Together, let’s help Yuma County’s children have a safe, memorable Halloween night!