Halloween can be a deadly pedestrian holiday, especially for children. In fact, two times the number of child pedestrians are killed on Halloween as compared to any other single day of the year according to Safe Kids Worldwide. Despite the fact that many parents worry about safety on Halloween, only about one-third of parents actually speak to their kids about how to be safe on this holiday.
The National Safety Council ranks October as the second deadliest month of the year for motor vehicle deaths, and many of those accidents that lead to a death happen with pedestrians. The biggest issue is when pedestrians improperly cross roads, either not at designated crossing areas or when children dart out in front of cars.
It’s important for parents to go over pedestrian safety with their kids, especially prior to activities like trick-or-treating. Here, we’ve laid out some pedestrian and motorist tips for a safe Halloween.
Pedestrian Safety Tips for Halloween
- A parent or a responsible adult should always accompany younger trick-or-treaters.
- Plan and review a route with your kids, especially with older kids who may be out without an adult. Ensure that your kids know the rules, and do not stray from the approved route.
No texting and walking, for kids or adults. Pay attention at all times.
- No running across the street or darting in front of cars at any point during the night.
- All costumes should have a reflective component, especially if your child is wearing a dark costume. This is not a fashion statement, but a safety issue, and should be non-negotiable.
- Stay in well-lit areas for trick-or-treating.
- Do not allow your children to approach any vehicles on the roads. Warn them to stay off the roads as much as possible.
- Instruct your kids to only cross streets at designated crosswalks, and obey all traffic signals and instructions. As parents, it’s important that you also set the example for your children by obeying all traffic signals as well.
- Attend trick-or-treating events such as the annual Track or Treat that we sponsor every year at Evelyn Greer Park. It’s a fun, friendly, and safe way to celebrate Halloween.
Safety Tips for Motorists on Halloween
- Motorists should avoid neighborhoods with a high volume of trick-or-treaters if possible.
- Watch in all directions and drive slowly through neighborhood streets.
- Pay attention for children in dark clothing or costumes, and stop at all intersections and wait until all children have safely crossed the road before passing through the intersection.
Both pedestrians and operators of vehicles have a duty and obligation to obey traffic laws, including the proper use of cross walks. Whatever your plans are this Halloween, keep in mind that it is your responsibility to be careful, pay attention and look where you’re going.
In the unfortunate event that you or someone you love is seriously injured or killed in an accident involving a negligent driver, it’s important that you contact an experienced pedestrian automobile accident. He or she may be able to help you seek restitution for the damages you suffered as a result of the incident.
References:
Quick Tips for a Safe Halloween. (n.d.). Retrieved October 11, 2017, from https://safekids.org/infographic/quick-tips-safe-halloween
Spooky Truths Regarding Halloween Safety On and Off the Road. (n.d.). Retrieved October 11, 2017, from http://nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/halloween-safety.aspx
