AAA: Children 4 times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween

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Jordan Bowen – DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) – With Halloween just days away, parents and local law enforcement are stepping in to make sure kids stay safe on a day when children are at a high risk for injury.

For Kettering mother of 3 Erin Molden, trick-or-treating is a two-man job.

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"For us, it's just my husband and I and we dress-up as well with our kids," Molden said. "We walk with them and be alert on what's going on."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, children are 4 times more likely to be struck by a car on Halloween than any other day of the year.

"Residential streets get really, really busy with small kids and the concern is that traffic goes on about as normal," Sgt. Gaudette said. "But the kids are darting from house to house across the street. They are not going to the intersections. They're just being kids."

That's why Kettering Police Sgt. Doug Gaudette says it's up to the parents to keep kids under close watch. With many Miami Valley communities are hosting trick-or-treaters this year from 6 to 8 p.m., Sgt. Gaudette wants parents to try to avoid the dark colored costumes.

"Wear light-colored clothing," Sgt. Gaudette said. "Something for you kids so that you can be seen or a car light will illumniate you. Glow sticks can be used. Flashlights. Something so your group will stand out."

If you're going to be out driving, you should also be alert. Police recommend driving at least 5 mph below the speed limit in residential areas, especially areas that aren't well lit.

"Just have your heads up. Slow down. Pay attention when you're driving and look out for kids because there's going to be hundreds and hundreds out."