Halloween Driving

This time of year brings with it a special need to not only be more aware of our surroundings while out on the road, but also brings the need to make sure our own families take special measures to remain safe out there while on the hunt for sacks full of candy as well!  As many kids take to the street in search of candy treats, it poses a danger of an increased amount of pedestrian traffic on most suburban streets.  As more and more businesses and business communities are hosting their own early candy-grabbing sessions, pedestrian traffic is set to increase around these areas during this time of year as well. 
 
Since the ghouls and goblins come out at sunset on their quest for candy, this makes spotting them sometimes difficult.  Although some children play it safe and carry flashlights and glow-sticks, it still can be difficult to see them as they run about the streets.  As a child, we would always go out together in a group that was supervised by a couple parents or much older siblings.  This ensured we would be seen and the adults made sure of our safety throughout the night.  Glow sticks for us then were just something fun to have, but made it so that we were always visible when crossing a street or walking on a sidewalk.
 
If you happen to be a parent with kids going out on the hunt, be sure to coach them on how to stay safe.  Bright colored costumes are best for visibility, but if your child does have a dark costume, make sure they have a light source such as a flashlight, strobe pin, or glow-stick to make them more visible in the dark.  Remind them to look out for vehicle traffic and only to cross streets in well-lit, crosswalk controlled crossings. 
 
This holiday also poses a danger in the form of increased inebriated drivers.  Far too many people ignore the harsh penalties for drinking and driving and partake in alcoholic beverages at costume parties before taking the wheel to head elsewhere.  If you do not have to work and attend one of these functions yourself, be sure to do the right thing and designate a driver or call a cab.  If you do have to work and be out driving this Halloween, be sure to drive safely, keep your eyes on the lookout for pedestrians, and be aware of other hazards such as potential drivers under the influence around you.