CAA Saskatchewan is reminding trick-or-treaters and drivers to stay alert and be safe this Halloween. Motorists and children need to watch out for each other.
Motorists, when driving on Halloween evening, slow down and watch for excited trick-or-treaters who will be darting through neighbourhoods. Drivers are encouraged to slow down to at least 10 km below the speed limit in residential areas. Costumes are always exciting and fun to wear, but it's recommended that parents help choose costumes that are bright at night and don't obstruct children's vision and hearing. Consider adding reflective markings on the costumes and also check the length of costumes to avoid tripping.
"For adult partygoers, CAA reminds drivers to avoid taking short cuts through residential areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be and to be extra aware of children crossing the street," said Christine Niemczyk, Director of Communications. "And, of course, don't drink and drive or allow others to do so. Please ensure you have a safe ride home."
To help educate children about Halloween safety, CAA Saskatchewan provides bookmarks containing safety tips to students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 in schools throughout the province. The bookmarks are also available at the 12 CAA Saskatchewan locations.
Here are a few safety tips for parents, caregivers, and teachers to share with trick-or-treaters:
Look both ways before the crossing the street and listen for traffic before crossing.
Cross the street at corners and never between parked cars or in the middle of the block.
If there are no sidewalks, always walk facing traffic and as far off the road as possible.
Think about your boundaries and make sure your parents or caregivers know where you will be.
Trick-or-treat in groups.
Have an adult or older teen accompany younger children.
Carry a flashlight.
Plan a route through familiar neighbourhoods with well-lit streets.
Never enter a stranger's house, even if you're invited.
