ODOT: Kids 2x more likely to be hit by car on Halloween
Parents encounter plenty of scares — imaginary and real — on Halloween. And you may think you’ve experienced them all…but do you want to see something really scary?
Your child is more than twice as likely to be hit and killed by a car on Halloween*.
“Halloween is fun and exciting but one mistake, like jumping into the street between parked cars, can be fatal,” said Transportation Safety Division Administrator Troy E. Costales. “Elementary-age children are at the highest risk. They have a field of vision one-third narrower than an adult. And kids tend to overestimate their abilities. That’s why children should have adult supervision while trick-or-treating.”
October 31 is one of the three most dangerous days all year for pedestrian injuries and fatalities, according to a study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration analyzing 25 years of data. Planning ahead is critical to ensuring Halloween is fun and safe. Remind your children to follow the same pedestrian safety rules they use going to and from school, such as only crossing at crosswalks, and looking left-right-left before crossing. Finally, review these safety tips:
Examine costumes — adjust length to avoid tripping, secure hats and examine masks to ensure full vision; improve visibility with reflective gear or tape. Carry a flashlight and, if wearing a mask, lift it up as you walk from door to door. Plan a family-friendly route — familiar, well-lit areas — and stay in groups.
“Child safety is important every day,” said Costales, “so don’t let your guard down on Halloween, when your kids need to pay extra attention to be safe and have fun.”
REMINDER: Buzzed driving is drunk driving; marijuana, prescription drugs and even over-the-counter drugs can impair your ability to judge distances and speed. On Halloween and every day of the year, don’t get behind the wheel if you are even slightly impaired: the consequences could be tragic.
*According to Safe Kids Worldwide, children are twice as likely to be hit and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than any other day of the year.
