Halloween is here! It’s the spookiest night of the year and lots of fun for kids all over the UK. And what better way to get into the spooky spirit than to don a devilish costume and go trick or treating?
But before you head out a-haunting, it’s important to remember to stay safe. Studies show that children are more at risk of getting hurt on the roads on Halloween than any other night of the year.
Whether you’re out with the kids trick or treating, or just out for a drive, here are some spooktacular safety tips for this Halloween:
Tips for parents
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Give off a ghoulish glow
Add reflective tape and glow sticks to costumes to make it easier for drivers to see your little monsters in the dark.
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Give your phone the boo-t
Once you’ve taken some snaps of your kids all dressed up, put away your phone. You’ll need to stay alert and watch out for cars and other hazards while trick or treating – which is tricky to do if you’re distracted by your phone.
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Take a torch
Carry a torch or glow sticks so your kids can see the pavement and be seen by others. It’s a simple way to help everyone stay safe.
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Don’t let masks cause mishaps
Ask your children to lift their masks before they cross the road. This helps them see better and check both ways. Use pedestrian crossings when you can - and hold hands if needed.
Tips for drivers
Whether you’re heading home after work or off for some fright night fun, here’s how to stay safe on the roads this Halloween:
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Kill your speed in residential areas
Kids might be crossing roads in search of the next house to trick or treat. Keep your speed low so you can stop quickly if needed.
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Costume caution
If you’re dressing up, make sure your costume doesn’t block your view or restrict your movement. It’s safer for driving and also a rule 97 of the Highway Code - no driving in clothes that limit your vision or movement.
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Light up
Turn on your lights, even before it gets dark. They help you see better and make your car more visible to kids and pedestrians.
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Stay focused
With all the decorations and spooky lights, it’s easy to get distracted from the road. But you’ll need to stay focussed on hazards ahead. Children can be unpredictable and may run out into the road suddenly. Stay alert and be ready to stop.
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Don’t let your night turn into a fright
If you’re going to a Halloween party, it’s best to leave the alcohol behind. Driving under the influence is illegal and dangerous. Drink-driving accounts for around one-fifth of all deaths1 and serious injuries on British roads.
By following these simple tips, we can all help make Halloween safe and fun for everyone. Stay alert, stay cautious, and enjoy a spooky, safe night!
1 Reported road casualties in Great Britain involving illegal alcohol levels: 2022, Reported road casualties in Great Britain involving illegal alcohol levels: 2023
