Here’s a scary statistic: Children are more than three times as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
Between 2004 and 2018, an average of 18 children were hit and killed by a car each day of the year, but that average rises to 54 children on Halloween.
A study in Journal of the American Medical Association found that 6:00 p.m. was the deadliest hour for pedestrians on Halloween. Also, drunk driving often occurs on Halloween night and causes 43% of nighttime traffic fatalities.
Traffic safety is essential for trick-or-treaters. These tips can help make a safe and happy holiday for everyone.
Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters:
- A responsible adult should always accompany children during trick-or-treating.
- If older children are going out alone, make sure to review traffic safety, plan a route, agree on a time to be home, and determine a method of communication in case of emergency.
- Tell your children to travel only in familiar areas with sufficient lighting and never travel alone.
- Both children and adults should remember to put electronics down and stay attentive, especially when crossing the street.
- Only cross the street at crosswalks or corners.
- Consider a light-colored costume that may be seen more easily.
- Consider carrying flashlights or glowsticks or attaching reflective tape to costumes or bags.
Safety Tips for Motorists:
- Watch for children on roads, curbs, and medians.
- Drive carefully when entering or exiting driveways.
- Turn on your headlights early in the afternoon.
- Watch for children in dark costumes at night.
- Discourage new or inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.
- Do not speed or use your phone while driving.
- Never drive if you have consumed alcohol. If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.
Please practice safety and stay aware of your surroundings whether driving or trick-or-treating. Everyone loves a good scare on Halloween, but not when it comes to the safety of trick-or-treaters.