This week, millions of children will don masks and costumes and converge upon neighborhoods across the U.S. While most children are focused on getting candy and having fun this Halloween, a night of trick or treating presents many safety concerns for parents, drivers and children.

Overwhelmed by the excitement and sugar high which often accompany Halloween night, children are less likely to watch for approaching cars. Many children, however, are out and about much later than normal and are wearing costumes and masks that may inhibit their ability to move freely and see clearly. Likewise, drivers may be distracted and therefore fail to see a child who darts out into the street or is wearing a dark-colored costume.

To keep safe on Halloween, and every night, pedestrians are advised to follow some basic safety rules. For example, ensure a child has some sort of reflective material on their costume. This will catch the eye of oncoming drivers. Additionally, always ensure that children cross the street at intersections and use cross walks when possible. When available, make sure children use sidewalks or walk facing traffic.

There are enough concerns and distractions on Halloween night without throwing mobile devices in the mix. Parents and chaperones are advised, therefore, to store cellphones and focus instead on ensuring for the safety and wellbeing of those children with whose care they're entrusted.

Individuals involved in pedestrian accidents often suffer devastating injuries that permanently impact their quality of life. Many require both immediate and ongoing medical care and some never fully recover.

Source: Hunterdon County Democrat, "Pedestrian safety tips for trick-or-treaters," Oct. 25, 2013