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As a parent, you will likely hear horror stories of people hiding razor blades or drugs in the candy they are giving out this Halloween. But there are far less sick and sinister things that are a lot more likely to harm you and your kids this fall.
As you get ready to head to the pumpkin patch, or dress up with your kids to go trick-or-treating, the Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman hopes you will keep a few simple safety tips in mind. The Halloween season often corresponds with an uptick in personal injury accidents in North Mississippi, but being aware of the risks you face can help you stay safe this spooky season.
1. Make Sure You and Your Kids are Dressed Appropriately
If you plan to be out after dusk, make sure the clothing you are wearing can be seen by others who are out enjoying the evening as well. Consider adding reflective tape or carrying flashlights or glow sticks for extra visibility.
Pedestrian accidents, whether they are caused by distracted driving or failure to obey traffic laws, are a serious concern in north Mississippi. Making yourself visible when you are out and about, and obeying traffic laws yourself, are the best ways to stay safe.
2. Look Out For Leaves
The Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman team always notices an uptick in the number of slip or trip and fall accidents this time of year.
Falling leaves and dying vegetation make for a slick walking surface, and can hide uneven ground or other obstacles, so watch where you are walking.
Fall outings are often the first time in months that you and the kids are wearing closed toe shoes or mud boots. Double check the fit and condition of your family’s shoes to make sure you are not inviting an injury with your shoe choices.
3. Distracted Driving is no Treat
This time of year is an especially dangerous time to be on the roadways. It gets dark earlier than usual, leaves and other debris can make the road slick, animals are on the move, farmers are working late into the evening, and the kids in the backseat are hyped up on sugar!
Keep on high alert as you and other drivers adjust to the changing seasons, and try to ignore the sticky, shrieking mess that is your child after they have eaten too much candy.
4. Prepare for Tricks as well as Treats
Going all out to prepare for trick-or-treaters requires more than stocking up on candy. By welcoming little ghouls and goblins, you are sending a message that it is safe to walk up to your front door and ring the bell. Make sure it is by clearing the sidewalk, turning on outdoor lighting that highlights stairs or other obstacles, and checking to see if any repairs are needed to make your property safe.
If you live in a neighborhood that is known for pranksters, you may want to remove items that could draw them in and invite property damage. If you are especially worried, it is not a bad idea to install motion sensitive lights and exterior cameras.
The Lawyers That Listen
Fall is a fun season in north Mississippi, but that does not mean it is accident-free! If you or a loved one is seriously injured this Halloween, the Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman team is here for you. We serve clients in Shelby County, Tennessee, and Desoto and Tate counties in Mississippi, as well as the surrounding area. Please contact us today to set up a meeting.
