LOS ANGELES (CNS) – With rain in the forecast and trick-or-treaters expected on neighborhood streets, a UCLA Health pediatrician urged families to take extra precautions to keep children safe this Halloween.
“Nothing is scarier on Halloween than a trip to the emergency room,” said Dr. Kiran Masood, who offered safety tips for families preparing to go out with children.
Masood recommends that children younger than 10 trick-or-treat with an adult. Families should use designated crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, avoid cellphone distractions while walking and stay clear of the spaces between parked vehicles, she said.
Rain is forecast in Los Angeles on Halloween, potentially reducing visibility and making roads and sidewalks slippery, according to UCLA Health. Masood recommends bright or reflective clothing and carrying flashlights. Costumes and accessories should not block vision or pose a tripping hazard, such as oversized shoes or long capes.
“Neighbors can help by turning on their outside lights to help increase visibility for families on the street,” Masood said.
The pediatrician also advises parents to discourage children from riding e-bikes and e-scooters on Halloween, when dark and rainy conditions and crowds of pedestrians can raise the risk of crashes. California law requires riders younger than 18 to wear helmets on e-bikes and e-scooters. E-scooter riders also need a driver’s license or permit, according to UCLA Health.
Drivers should keep their distance from e-bikes and e-scooters to help avoid accidents, Masood said.
