The Dalton Police Department would like to remind motorists that this afternoon and evening (Wednesday, October 31st), the streets will be full of Trick or Treaters celebrating Halloween. Motorists should be extra careful during the hours between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,000 young children are injured during those hours on Halloween, mostly as pedestrians hit by cars. This is four times greater then the national average for the same time period during any other night during the year.
The department would like to give the following tips to motorist in the area to avoid being involved in a pedestrian crash:
- Costumes may restrict the visibility of small children.
- Do not count on small children being aware of your approach. Drive slowly when approaching kids.
- Please keep vehicle speeds well below the posted speed limit, especially in neighborhoods.
- Watch for vehicles dropping off or picking up children.
- Avoid using other devices in the car that you are operating, such as cell phones or navigation devices.
- Be patient when traffic becomes congested in areas where there are trick or treaters.
Parents can also help avoid pedestrian crashes by talking to their young ones before the night’s adventure. Here are some tips:
- Warn children about the dangers of crossing the street without first looking for oncoming traffic.
- Avoid Trick or Treating on very busy streets.
- Always have your children use a sidewalk when there is one.
- To increase visibility, have your children carry a flashlight or glow sticks.
- Apply reflect tape or stickers to costumes.
- Make sure the costume fits your child properly before they venture out, making sure they can see out of their mask.
- Always chaperone in groups.
The department would like motorists and parents alike to make this a safe and accident free Halloween night for our local children. Happy Halloween!
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