October is Safety Awareness Month. We are enjoying the cooler nights and still some warm sunny fall days, one of the best seasons in New York. The leaves are changing, the air is crisp and holidays including Halloween and Thanksgiving are in sight.

 

Along with the fall season come some safety reminders.

 

Falling wet leaves can be a cause for concern when children are playing out of doors, people are taking a brisk walk and fall cleanup continues as we prepare for the winter months ahead.

We must keep safety in mind when doing these tasks.

 

Be sure to wear protective eyewear when raking leaves, and doing the cleanup in the yard.

Keep sidewalks clear for walking – and especially for the soon-to-be trick-or-treaters to avoid slipping and falling.

 

Be careful when approaching piles of leaves on the street with a car because they make good hiding places for children and animals.

 

When children are outside playing, be sure to dress them appropriately, particularly at a time of year when one warm day can be followed by an October storm the next.

 

Neighborhood pools should be closed by now.

 

Wear light, reflective clothing at night and wear a mask that keeps your eyes and mouth unobstructed. Every year, someone trips and falls and hurts themselves unnecessarily. Children love trick-or-treating but safety rules still apply; check all your children’s spoils before they dig in.

 

Adults need to plan; if there is no designated driver, Lyft, Uber, and taxis are good alternatives. Don’t risk your safety and the safety of others; it’s never worth taking the chance.