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NI parents spooked as Halloween holidays raise safety concerns

NI parents spooked as Halloween holidays raise safety concerns

29 October 2015 by Andrew McClenaghan

Over half of parents in Northern Ireland admit that they worry more about the safety of their children at Halloween than any other time of the year, a new study has found.

The Ni4Kids Halloween poll, in association with Cyril Johnston, surveyed more than 600 families across Northern Ireland, asking parents with kids of all ages about their fears as the darker nights close in.

The findings revealed that over a third of parents worry most about their children using sparklers or fireworks without adult supervision, while 27 per cent admit that their greatest fear is losing their child in a crowd at a public display or event.

A further 19 per cent said that their biggest concern comes at this time of year when their children will be walking beside and along dark roads at night, whether they are trick-or-treating or just out with their friends.

Commenting on the findings David Beck, Managing Director of Cyril Johnston, who supported the study said: “As the darker nights draw in, it’s no great surprise that many parents worry about the safety of their children.

“This concern is understandable in the midst of half term, with so many public events taking place and when there’s more time for kids to be out and about with their friends. “From firework displays to trick-or-treating, it can be a fantastic time of year for families but it can be dangerous as well if it isn’t managed properly, so it’s encouraging that so many parents think more about the safety of their kids at this time of year.

“Whether than means accompanying them when they are out or just keeping in touch with a quick call or text, it could make all of the difference, so it’s vital that parents look at the small steps they can take and keep in close contact as it will ensure the holidays are more enjoyable for everyone.”

The poll also highlighted how Northern Ireland families plan to celebrate Halloween, with 93 per cent planning to carve pumpkins, 88 per cent decorating their home and almost three quarters taking their kids trick-or-treating.

Nadia Duncan, Managing Editor of Ni4kids said: “Halloween has become hugely popular with families and that’s not shocking considering there are so many spook-tacular events happening right across Northern Ireland.

“The poll also gave us an opportunity to highlight the safety concerns that parents have at this time of year, when the clocks go back, and the dark nights come in.

“At Ni4kids we just want families right across the province to have a fun, but safe half-term holiday and if they need any ideas for what to do and where to go, how to host a SUPERnatural party or to brush up on their trick or treat etiquette, they’ll find lots of great suggestions in our Halloween issue and online at www.ni4kids.com”

For more information on Cyril Johnston please visit www.cyriljohnston.com

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