AAA Issues Advisory for a Safe Halloween
25 October 2000
BELLEVUE, Wash. - Citing the fact that there is a fourfold increase in young pedestrian deaths and injuries on Halloween evening, AAA urges everyone to do their part in keeping children safe this Halloween. An analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that among pedestrians aged 5 - 14, an estimated 4,000 injuries occur on Halloween between the hours of 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. This compares with an estimated 1,000 injuries during these hours on every other day of the year. "On Halloween evening, we're placing our children in some of the most dangerous traffic situations they'll face during their lifetime," said Janet Ray, AAA Washington spokesperson. "Children will be outside after dark, walking on and across unfamiliar streets and they often wear dark colors that are difficult for motorists to see." Because of these safety concerns, many parents are finding alternative methods to celebrate such as local mall events and Halloween parties. For those parents and children who continue with traditional trick-or-treating, AAA recommends a few simple tips for a safer Halloween: Children -- Instruct children to walk facing traffic and cross streets only at the corners -- never cross mid-block or between parked cars. -- Avoid costumes that include masks, they block vision. -- Urge your children to wear light-colored costumes. Also, apply reflective tape and glow-in-the-dark accessories to costumes and treat buckets. -- Be sure every trick-or-treater and chaperone carries a flashlight. For younger kids, make it hands-free by placing the light face down in their treat bucket. Remind your children not to shine their flashlights in the eyes of oncoming drivers. Parents -- Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance and include only neighborhoods you know. -- Be sure children are accompanied by an adult. -- Wear reflective tape and glow-in-the-dark accessories, too. Motorists -- Slow down and drive cautiously to give yourself extra time to react to children crossing the street. -- Be extra alert to children crossing the street between parked cars or in the middle of the block. -- Broaden your scan -- look left and right into yards and onto front porches. -- Turn your lights on even in daylight -- lights make you more visible. -- Arrive home a little earlier on Halloween. Make sure you have your treats ready early so you can avoid last-minute trips to the store. "Keeping kids safe is a safety challenge for everyone on Halloween," said Ray. "Keep in mind that trick-or-treaters are focused on candy and fun -- rather than traffic safety. And, remember that you are going to be seeing pedestrians where you usually don't." AAA Washington would like you to have a safe and happy Halloween!