Halloween Safety for Vehicles and Pedestrians

Guest Editorial by: Jeff Ogden, president of AAA Minnesota/Iowa

BURNSVILLE, Minn., Oct. 18 -- As Halloween approaches, remember to be on the lookout for ghosts, goblins and other costumed characters who will be trick-or-treating on neighborhood streets Oct. 31.

Pedestrian traffic fatalities are already a great risk for children, and this threat increases on Halloween. Some masks and costumes can make it particularly difficult for children to see vehicles and be seen by drivers.

Daylight savings time ends on Halloween this year, making the night skies even darker. Combine this with more children on the streets and motorists on the road, an already dangerous situation is enhanced.

To help reduce the risks for young pedestrians, AAA suggests basic Halloween safety rules for motorists, parents and trick-or-treaters ages 5 to 14 years of age.

   -- Motorists should drive slower through neighborhoods (approximately
      5 mph slower than the posted speed limit). Children dart from house to
      house, excited about candy collection and forget about traffic. Look
      for children around porches, front lawns and other remote areas, not
      just the sidewalks.
   -- Parents are encouraged to walk with their children door to door while
      trick-or-treating, showing children safe places to cross the street.
   -- Children and parents both should wear light-colored clothing or
      costumes with reflective material or tape for the best driver
      visibility.
   -- Children should carry a flashlight, but should not shine the
      flashlight at oncoming vehicles.
   -- Trick-or-treaters should always walk facing traffic if there are no
      sidewalks available.
   -- Create a map of the neighborhood so children and parents agree on the
      safest trick-or-treating route in advance, including only familiar
      neighborhoods. Children should go only to houses that are well lit.
   -- Use face paint instead of masks for a Halloween costume. Masks can
      limit the ability to see and hear oncoming traffic.

Recently, more families are attending Halloween events rather than door- to-door trick-or-treating. Halloween parties and mall trick-or-treating can be two safe alternatives. By using a little extra caution and following these tips, families can enjoy a fun and safe Halloween.

Jeff Ogden is the president of AAA Minnesota/Iowa, which includes more than 720,000 members, and offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services.