COLUMBUS – More than 40 million children between the ages of five and 14 will be out on neighborhood streets around dusk as they go door-to-door to gather Hallowe’en treats and safety officials are reminding drivers and parents to keep the little ones safe.
Motorists:
Obey all traffic signs and signals.
Slow down. A pedestrian is nearly twice as likely to be killed if they’re hit by a car going 30 mph compared to if they’re hit at 25 mph, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
Watch for trick-or-treaters. Be aware that they may not be paying attention to traffic and may cross mid-block or between parked cars. Scan the road ahead.Parents:
Parents should accompany young trick-or-treaters at least until the age of 12.
Plan and discuss the route trick-or-treaters will follow.
Cross streets only at the corner. Never cross between parked cars or mid-block.
Select highly visible costumes. Add reflective tape to costumes and treat buckets and bags to increase visibility. Also, carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.
Avoid facemasks, which obstruct vision. Instead, use nontoxic face paint.
Ensure costumes fit well. Watch the length of billowy costumes to help avoid tripping.-Source: AAA Ohio
Nearly half of Hallowe’en traffic fatalities – almost a quarter of those involving pedestrians — involve alcohol-impaired drivers, so the auto club has reminders for partygoers and hosts.
Partiers should designate a sober driver, call a cab or ride sharing service, or stay overnight and hosts should offer alternatives to alcohol because Ohio’s host liability law holds those who serve alcohol liable for injury or death that occurs due to their drunken guests.