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Senator Judith Zaffirini: District 21
 
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 29, 2005
Contact: Gabe Valenzuela
(512) 463-0121
Senator Zaffirini Promotes Safety during Halloween

(AUSTIN) - According to a 1997 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of deaths among young pedestrians was fourfold higher on Halloween evening in comparison to all other evenings of the year. The actual number of Halloween-related deaths could be higher because the report included only deaths that occurred from p.m. to 4-10 p.m. and did not consider that many Halloween activities occur on other days, particularly when October 31 does not fall on a weekend.

Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, urges all persons participating in the seasonal events to practice safety and common sense to ensure everyone has a safe and happy Halloween.

"This can be a very exciting time for children," Senator Zaffirini said. "Everyone can have safe and enjoyable Halloween and harvest festival events by using some sensible safety tips."

Senator Zaffirini recommends parents of young children take the following actions:

  • Spend the evening with their children;
  • Ensure costumes are reflective, do not inhibit sight or are susceptible to fire;
  • Walk only on sidewalks and use designated crosswalks when crossing the street;
  • If a parent, adult or responsible teenager cannot accompany the children, define a trick-or-treating route for them and set a curfew;
  • Explain the difference between tricks and vandalism;
  • Inspect all candy and treats before allowing children to eat them; and
  • Make homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters by securing all pets and ensuring jack-o-lanterns will not be fire hazards.

"There are many other steps parents, family members and friends can take to ensure the safety of children," Senator Zaffirini said. "By implementing even a few, we can make this a joyous and safe time for everyone involved."

Additional safety tips can be obtained from the National Safety Council's website at www.nsc.org.

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