Have fun and be safe during night of trick or treating in Morgan Hill

Costumes galore in downtown Morgan Hill on Oct. 31 at the Safe Trick or Treat night. Morgan Hill Life photo file

By Anna-Liza Anderson

Anna-Liza Anderson

It’s almost Halloween and while everyone is determining what costume to wear, how to celebrate, and simply how much fun it will be, there is an element not to be forgotten. Staying safe while enjoying one of the most popular traditions in the United States with 70 percent participating is one that children, teens, and adults should pay attention to. Specifically, when it comes to trick or treating. So, whether you’re an adult, teen, child, or trying to avoid Halloween goers all together, here are a few tips.

Walk Safely

When crossing streets use traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking while you cross   Put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run across the street. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Always walk on sidewalks and paths. If there are no paths, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out in and between cars.  Always accompany children younger than 12 for trick or treating. If they are mature enough to be out alone teach them to stick to familiar areas and stay with groups.

Costumes for a Safe Halloween

Use reflective tape on costume and bags, and if possible choose light colors. Choose face paint and makeup when possible instead of masks which can obstruct a child’s vision. Have children carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them be seen by motorists. When selecting a costume make sure it is the right size so they don’t slip or fall.

Drive Extra Safe on Halloween

Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods.  Children are excited on Halloween and will move unpredictably. Take extra time to look for children at intersections, on medians, and on curbs. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully. Get rid of any distractions so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances. Popular trick or treating hours are 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Be especially alert for kids during those hours.

The Morgan Hill Downtown Association will host an opportunity for children younger than 13 to trick or treat in downtown Morgan Hill. This will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 31 and will let children to safely trick or treat. Just like Halloween, this has been a tradition for children in Morgan Hill wearing their costumes and bringing their candy bags where they visit various booths. This year, back by popular demand, will be the Mt. Madonna YMCA “Trunk or Treat” where custom and classic cars will be decorated with themes for everyone to enjoy as the children trick or treat.

If you work up an appetite or simply want to admire the festivities from the sidelines, visit one of the many restaurants we’re sure you’ll find something spooktacular!

If you are interested in entering your vehicle in the “Trunk or Treat,” contact [email protected].

Anna-Liza Anderson is a member of the Morgan Hill Downtown Association board.