To help everyone bring home treats — not tragedies — follow these tips for a safe Halloween:

  • Stay Focused – Focus on your driving. A single distraction could lead to a tragedy.
  • Drive Below the Speed Limit – Stay well below the posted speed limit.
  • Look for Darting Kids – Pay attention to what’s happening on sidewalks and roadways. Watch for children darting across streets, especially between parked cars.
  • Driveways – Be extra alert when pulling in and out of driveways.
  • Don’t AssumeDo not assume children can see you or are paying attention. You need to take that responsibility.
  • Check Your Lights – Drivers should also check that all lights on their car work.
  • Don’t PassDo not pass other vehicles that have stopped in the roadway. They could be dropping off children or stopped because of children in the road you can’t see.
  • Use Hazards – If you’re driving a group of children, but staying in the running vehicle at the curb, be sure to put on your hazard lights to alert other motorists.
  • Don’t Drive With Your Mask – if you’re driving to a Halloween party, don’t drive with your mask on, wait till you’ve parked the car.

Parents can help motorists, too:

  • Make sure drivers can see the children. Give them flashlights and glow sticks. Dress kids in bright, reflective clothing or use reflective tape on their costumes.
  • Use makeup, rather than masks, so children have a clear, unobstructed view of their surroundings.
  • Be sure children know how to cross a street — look left, right and left again before crossing.
  • Instruct children to stay on sidewalks and to cross only at corners or crosswalks.
  • Accompany your children as they trick or treat.

Originally Posted on the Idealease Safety Bulletin