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Halloween Can be Marvel(ous) for Those Who Put Safety First

28 October 1998

Halloween Can be Marvel(ous) for Those Who Put Safety First, AAA Says

    ORLANDO, Fla.--Oct. 27, 1998--Halloween is one of the highlights of the year for children.
    Unfortunately, it is also the most dangerous time of the year for them.
    According to research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control, child pedestrians are four times more likely to be injured on Halloween.
    "Halloween brings extra traffic, darkness and masks that restrict vision," said Mark L. Edwards, managing director of AAA Traffic Safety. "These components create a dangerous environment for pedestrians."
    To prevent accidents this holiday, AAA recommends that parents and motorists adopt the MARVEL approach:

o Makeup - disguise your trick-or-treater with makeup instead of
    a mask to avoid obstructed vision. o Accompany - always accompany trick-or-treaters to help ensure
    their safety. o Reflect - make sure costumes have adequate reflective material,
    making your ghost or goblin easy to see. o Visible - always walk on sidewalks and cross at crosswalks where
    you are more visible. Never cross the street from between cars
    or other obstructions. o Eyes - as motorists, keep a watchful eye for children darting into
    the street from between cars and other places you wouldn't expect. o Light - trick-or-treat while it is still light outside. Dusk is
    the most dangerous time for pedestrians. Carry a flashlight in
    case you are caught out at dusk or dark.


    "By taking a few extra steps before and during a trick-or-treat excursion, parents can help to ensure a safe and rewarding experience for children," said Edwards.
    AAA is a not-for-profit federation of 95 clubs with 1,100 offices providing more than 41 million members in the United States and Canada with travel, insurance, financial and auto-related services.

    AAA news releases can be downloaded from http://www.aaa.com/news