Halloween most dangerous night of year for kids, report says


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SALT LAKE CITY — As thousands of children around the state gear up for some trick-or-treating Thursday night, knowing how to keep your kids safe can be a major concern for some. Police and parents are being even more careful because of the latest suspicious activity in northern Utah.

Parents are especially worried in Brigham City where there have been two reported attempts of a stranger trying get kids into the car. Two kids said a woman tried to get them into her car while they were walking home Tuesday.

There's another reason to be concerned about safety — a Safe Kids report shows twice as many children are hit and killed on the roads on Halloween than on any other day of the year.

CDC Halloween and Health Safety Tips

Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.

Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.

For more safety tips, visit CDC.gov

"This is a time when you have to be most vigilant because safety hazards are everywhere," said Beverly Losman from Safe Kids.

Police are concerned about pedestrian accidents as well.

"I'd rather go on a thousand suspicious calls then have something really happen," said Lt. Mike Nelson from the Brigham City Police Department.

All over the state, officers will be on the look out, but they can't do it all. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) asks that parents also take a strong stand. They recommend to do anything you can to light up your child's costume, keep your eyes open for suspicious behavior and walk on sidewalks whenever possible.

"The best advice I would give is plan, strategize your route," Nelson said.

The CDC also recommends that a child never enter a stranger's home — or even a haunted house — unless there is a parent or guardian present.

While parents need to keep their eyes open and be aware, the CDC says you can't be too paranoid, or the savory fun behind the night will be sucked out.

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Haley Smith

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