TRENTON– Halloween is a time for young and old to indulge their inner ghosts and goblins, but the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (DHTS) is urging everyone to take extra precautions to ensure their spooky celebrations are safe ones, too.
DHTS Acting Director Gary Poedubicky said costume-clad children and adults who plan to drink at Halloween parties should be aware of the dangers lurking on the scariest night of the year and take steps to safeguard themselves.
“Young children out trick or treating at night are often so excited they forget basic rules for staying safe on streets and sidewalks,” Poedubicky said. “Parents should remind them ahead of time to stick to the sidewalks and cross only at crosswalks. Carrying a flashlight and wearing light-colored or reflective clothing with their costumes will also help them see and be seen in the darkness. Drivers should be extra vigilant in keeping an eye out for little trick or treaters.”
Last year 435 child pedestrians under the age of 15 were struck by motor vehicles in the state, resulting in eight fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that, on average, twice as many children are killed in pedestrian/vehicle accidents on Halloween between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. as compared to the same hours on other days throughout the year.
Youngsters aren’t the only ones vulnerable to Halloween dangers. Many adults partake in holiday celebrations that can lead to dangerous driving conditions. In 2013 40 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities across the country on Halloween night involved a drunk driver. A total of 29 people nationwide were killed in drunk-driving crashes on Halloween night that year. These numbers from the NHTSA reveal that drunk driving is more prevalent on Halloween compared with the rest of the year.
“Adults who are planning to drink alcohol at Halloween parties should avoid getting behind the wheel,” Poedubicky said. “Choosing a designated driver or taking a cab or public transportation will help ensure a safe return home.”
The Division offers the following safety tips to ensure a safe Halloween.
Tips for Parents to Share with Children:
For Partygoers:
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