Everyone needs to take extra care on
Halloween October 31st when excited children in costumes are out
in force. A seasonal safety message should remind all motorists to be
extra careful, and remind parents to review pedestrian safety rules with
their children. Alcohol consumption is also high on Halloween due to the
increased popularity of adult parties. Some communities have instituted
free cab ride programs on Halloween to reduce impaired driving.
Tips for Motorists
Slow down. Watch for
children walking on roads, medians and curbs. Enter and exit
driveways carefully.
Be especially alert for
children darting out from between parked vehicles and from behind
bushes and shrubs. Theyre excited and they are not paying
attention.
Never drink and drive
tonight or any night. If you are partying, designate a driver.
Tips for Parents
Adults should accompany
children at all times and supervise their "trick or treat"
activities.
Teach children to
"stop, look left-right-left, and listen" before they cross
the street.
Use a flashlight and wear
retro-reflective strips or patches on your clothing or costume to be
more visible to motorists.
Be certain that the mask
does not obstruct vision or hearing.
Ensure that costumes do
not impede walking or driving ability.
Tips for Pedestrians
(children and adults)
Before crossing a street,
stop at the curb or edge of the road and look left, right and left
again to be sure no cars are coming. Continue to check for traffic
while on the street.
Walk never run
from house to house or across the road.
Cross the street only at
intersections and crosswalks.
When crossing at an
intersection with a traffic light, be sure to watch for turning
cars. Obey all pedestrian signals.
Walk on sidewalks
whenever possible. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of
the street facing traffic.
