Parents are likely to be outdoors with their children in the dark at some point and therefore it is essential that they are safe and visible to other people and traffic. With some simple tips and advice and a few safety products you can ensure both you and your infant are visible.

Nighttime visibility for children

Making sure that you and your baby or toddler is visible at night is vitally important for safety. Try to dress yourself and your child in bright reflective colours to give the maximum chance of being spotted in poor light. Avoid roads or pathways where there is no street lighting and wherever possible always walk on a pavement and use designated pedestrian crossings.

There are a number of products that can alert passers-by, cyclists and motorists to the fact that you have a child with you. For many parents, the buggy, pram or stroller is necessary for transporting an infant but these products are not easily identifiable in the dark. Make everyone aware that you are there by placing reflectors on the buggy. If your toddler is walking alongside you, place a reflector on their clothing and yours.

Clippasafe High Visibility Reflectors

A similar product is a stroll light. This works in much the same way as strobe lights used by cyclists. This super-bright product has three flashing modes that will alert motorists and pedestrians of your presence. Attach one to yourself and your child so you’re both easily identified in the dark.

Sunshine Kids Stroll Light

Halloween and bonfire night safety

Parents with toddlers or slightly older children may want to take their infants trick-or-treating on Halloween and to a fireworks display on bonfire night. These occasions can be great fun for kids but there are some potential dangers to be aware of.

First of all, remember that your child may become frightened by the loud noises of fireworks or the scary sights and sounds of Halloween. You should gauge how ready your child is to experience these occasions and if in doubt hold your own party at home until they are old enough to be out in a public event.

If you do go out trick-or-treating, limit your journey to your own street or only go to the homes of friends or family. Be aware that some sweets are not suitable for toddlers so before your let your child eat any treats check they’re okay.

Never accept fresh fruit or homemade food from people you do not know and always check the packaging of any sweets to see if they’ve been opened. If they have, discard them.

When visiting a large fireworks display you should always keep your child close to you and visible (see reflectors and strobe light products above). It’s easy to be distracted while looking up into the sky at which point your toddler could wander off. Fit a proximity alarm to your toddler or child so if they do happen to stray you’ll be alerted.

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