PENNDOT OFFERS SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS

            ALLENTOWN, PA (October 24) - Halloween is a fun time for children to trick-or-treat with their family and friends.  Dressing up in costumes and going door-to-door in search of candy is all part of the fun.  However, the holiday can be

a real challenge to motorists.

            Depending on where you live, Trick-or-Treaters can be out in daylight or evening hours, and other days of the week besides October 31.  Therefore, drivers should be alert and mindful of children walking near roadways at Halloween time.

PennDOT recommends the following safety tips for Trick-or-Treaters:

1. Dress in bright, light colored clothing with retro-reflective strips.

            2. Carry a flashlight or glow stick.

            3. Cross the street safely.  Children should stop on the curb and look left, then right, then left again for oncoming traffic before stepping on to the road. 

4. When there are no sidewalks, walk on the left of the road facing traffic.

            5. Cross the street at an intersection, never cross between parked cars.

            6. Children wearing facemasks should remove them before crossing the road to increase their vision capabilities.

            7. Use caution at all times when on or near roads.  You may be able to see the car, but the driver of the car may not be able to see you.

            8. Drivers should stay alert.  Assume a child may dart out into traffic at anytime. 

            9. Plan the Trick-or-Treat route ahead of time, and use well lit streets. If parents cannot accompany their children, make sure the children travel in groups.

         10. Trick-or-Treaters should wait until they get home to sort and check their candy before it is eaten.

            By taking the time to follow these safety tips, parents can prevent a potential Halloween nightmare from happening.  Let's make Halloween a fun, safe time for everyone.