Halloween is a time of the year when motorists need to use extra caution.

“Trick-or-treating is exciting, and kids may not look or wait to cross the street on Halloween night. Drivers should be extra mindful and ready to stop or yield,” said Erika Miller, Public and Media Relations Specialist for CAA Manitoba. “We encourage families to teach their kids about road safety for Halloween night and throughout the year.”

CAA Manitoba reminds the community that children tend to go out for Halloween in the areas they commonly walk in. Schools and playgrounds are popular gathering places for kids who meet to trick-or-treat together. Motorists are reminded that there may be an increase in traffic in and around school zones, so it’s good practice to slow down more than usual when approaching crosswalks or intersections. When using a school parking lot, drivers should be aware that there may be small children out of view, and should look around and go slow.

Halloween safety tips for parents, pedestrians and motorists:


·   Costumes with masks can limit vision. Using makeup is best, but if a mask is a must, it should fit properly and allow the person to easily see out.

·   As much as possible, use reflective tape on costumes and carry a flashlight for safety.

·   Some parents drive their kids to trick-or-treat. Pedestrians and drivers should be mindful of motorists who may pull over to let children in and out of vehicles.

·   When passing a vehicle on Halloween, always assume a child could open or exit from a door on the driver’s side.

·   Communication is key: both pedestrians and drivers should make eye contact and signal their intentions.

If possible, drivers should avoid driving during peak trick-or-treating hours on Halloween night and choose an alternate time to go out.

 

The RCMP wants everyone to have a safe evening of trick or treating. Sergeant Joanne Ryll has a few reminders for parents and children. She says, wherever possible, parents should accompany their children.


"Parents should also be cognizant that children's costumes should have a reflective tape or something that helps with visibility. Of course, check all the candies when you get home. I know the children are anxious to try out the candies but I think most parents do wait until they get home and first check out the candies."


Ryll would also like drivers to step up their game tonight.


"To be especially cognizant of the children, the little ghosts and goblins, that will be running around. They're very excited so they're not always paying attention to the vehicles. So I think, on this particular day, the drivers need to be a little bit more cognizant of our little ghosts and goblins."