Stay Safe this Halloween: Essential Tips for Trick-or-Treaters and Drivers
As Halloween arrives, streets everywhere light up with costumes, laughter, and the thrill of trick-or-treating. But while it’s a night of fun, it's also important to remember that Halloween brings increased safety risks, especially for young trick-or-treaters and drivers. Each year, the presence of more children on the roads heightens the risk of accidents, with intersections being particularly hazardous. In Canada, approximately 300 pedestrians are killed annually, with intersections being the scene of one in five of these tragedies. To make this Halloween safer for everyone, CAA Manitoba has shared valuable tips for both pedestrians and drivers, helping to keep the night focused on treats rather than preventable dangers.
One of the best safety measures for drivers is to turn on headlights well before sunset to improve visibility. This small step alone can make a big difference in spotting trick-or-treaters, especially as dusk falls and costumes make it harder to see pedestrians. Motorists are also encouraged to drive slowly, especially in residential areas, where the chances of children darting out are higher. Halloween in Canada can bring unpredictable weather, so it’s essential for drivers to be aware of road conditions that might impact stopping time. Keeping a sharp lookout and maintaining slower speeds can help drivers prevent accidents on this bustling night.
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Parents, too, have a role in ensuring safety. Mapping out a planned trick-or-treating route with children not only keeps them within familiar areas but also allows parents to track their whereabouts easily. A simple plan, like meeting kids at the end of each street, is a good way to manage their excitement and ensure they don’t wander off alone. Adding reflective tags or glow sticks to costumes is a fun and effective way to increase visibility, especially in darker areas where street lighting is limited. Costume visibility is crucial, and accessories like glow sticks or reflective tape can catch a driver’s eye even from a distance.
Another often-overlooked tip involves avoiding restrictive masks. Masks can limit children’s peripheral vision, making it harder for them to see approaching cars. Face paint is a great alternative—it’s fun, enhances costumes, and most importantly, allows children to see fully. If a mask is a must, parents should enlarge the eye holes to help kids see better, adding an extra layer of safety for them to navigate streets and sidewalks.
Reminding kids to cross intersections carefully also goes a long way. Children are often so eager to get to the next house that they might forget to look both ways. A quick reminder before heading out can reinforce the habit of stopping and looking, even if they’re caught up in the excitement. With these proactive steps from both drivers and parents, we can ensure that Halloween stays a night of fun, treats, and spooky stories—not dangerous close calls.
So, as we prepare for Halloween, let’s keep these safety tips in mind. A little caution and planning go a long way in ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities without worry. Have a happy and safe Halloween!
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