The National Safety Council (NSC) is urging caution for everyone out on the roads during the Halloween holiday.
Most crash-related pedestrian fatalities occur when it is dark and pedestrian deaths spike on Halloween night. There are many reasons for this including increased pedestrian traffic, alcohol consumption and lower visibility because of costumes and masks, as well as shorter daylight hours.
The National Safety Council recommends the following safety tips for both drivers and trick-or-treaters:
Costumes
- Choose bright-colored costumes and use reflective tape, glowsticks or flashlights to boost visibility
- Use nontoxic face paint and/or well-fitted hats instead of masks that may obstruct vision
- Costumes should be flame-resistant and fit well to prevent tripping
Pedestrian safety
- Walk on the sidewalk when possible; if no sidewalk is available, walk close to the curb facing traffic and always obey traffic signs and signals
- Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways and avoid walking between parked cars
- Children should travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stay with their friends
- Young children should be accompanied by adults who are not impaired by drugs or alcohol, or distracted by cell phones
Drivers
- Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs
- Enter and exit driveways carefully
- Make eye contact with pedestrians looking to cross the street so they know you see them
- Discourage inexperienced drivers from driving during this time
