With Halloween just around the corner on Oct. 31, all the little ghouls and goblins will make their way around town to enjoy the festivities the holiday has to offer.

Although Halloween can be a fun time of the year to dress up and go door to door in search of delicious treats, it can also be dangerous due to the increased amount of pedestrian traffic.

According to information from the National Safety Council (NSC), “children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year.”

NSC research also revealed 18 percent of the deaths occurred at road crossings or intersections.

So, what can be done to increase safety on Halloween?

The American Academy of Pediatrics said to plan for costumes that are bright and reflective. Costumes should also be short enough to prevent tripping.

Also, non-toxic makeup is a safer alternative to masks, due to the ability of a mask to block eyesight.

On the other hand, motorists can play their part in preventing Halloween accidents by being alert and if possible, cutting down traveling by vehicle as much as possible during the hours of treat or treating.

Additionally, parents or an adult should always accompany young children. Well lit streets utilizing sidewalks are always the best option, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

While traditional door to door trick or treating is still very much a big part of Halloween, many organizations are participating in safety alternatives know as trunk or treat events.

Instead of going to door to door, trunk or treat events provide a safe confined environment where children can collect a variety of treats, all done from the trunk of a car.

To make the events even more engaging, trunk or treats participants are encouraged to decorate their trunks.

We hope the children of Charlotte County will enjoy the upcoming holiday while being safe and aware of their surroundings.