According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were an estimated 36.1 million trick-or-treaters nationwide in 2005. With currently more than 218 million cell phones in service in the U.S., including 56% of children 13-17 years-old, many trick-or-treaters are already armed with cell phones for safety this Halloween. In addition, 52% of adults keep their cell phones turned on at all times. And in previous years, Halloween has been one of the heaviest wireless-calling days of the year at Cingular Wireless, the nation's largest wireless carrier. Combine these trends with some safety tips in using a wireless phone and parents can have peace of mind that their children will have a safe Halloween in 2006.
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Program emergency contact numbers. Program numbers for nearby family and close friends to the speed-dial list on your and your children's cell phones.
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Have a family communications plan in place. Tell your kids to call home if they become separated from the group or if they ever feel scared or lost.
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Capture the moment. Use your camera phone feature to snap those funny, spur-of-the-moment photos of your kids in their Halloween costumes.
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Create a "Trick-or-Treat" patrol. Have a group of adults monitoring Halloween activities by posting people with wireless phones throughout the neighborhood. It's a great way to keep neighborhoods safe and builds camaraderie.
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Make sure your wireless phone has a fully charged battery. That way, you can be assured the phone is working while out and around the neighborhood.
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Raise the volume. With all the noise of a group, it can be hard to hear the phone ring, so be sure to put the volume on high and select a clearly audible ring tone.
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Make sure kids can easily access their wireless phone. Costumes and candy can get cumbersome -- use a belt clip or other accessory that leaves hands free but keeps the phone within easy reach.
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Establish a periodic check-in time. For older children who may venture out with less supervision, set a periodic check-in time to call or text home through the evening to ensure they are OK.
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Keep a list of adults' contact information. Trade phone numbers will all parents who are in your party, especially if you can't physically be with your kids.
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Be a Wireless Samaritan. If you see anything suspicious or out of place, use your wireless phone to call 9-1-1 or notify local law enforcement authorities.
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Drive responsibly. Don't let phone conversations be a distraction as you cruise the neighborhood.
For more information, call 1-866-CINGULAR.