Safety’s no trick on Halloween

By Holli Keaton (Contact) | Troy Messenger

Published Saturday, October 31, 2009

For many, Halloween’s a time to dress up like spooky creatures, favorite characters or just something fun.

But, Troy Police remind residents it’s also a time to be safe.

“This Saturday evening, the streets will have children trick-or-treating, and the Troy Police Department is reminding drivers to do their part to make sure they get their treats home safely,” said Police Chief Anthony Everage.

This weekend, in particular, with a Troy University football game in addition to Halloween-night festivities, Everage said people should be especially careful.

“We need to be conscious because there is a game over at Movie Gallery Veterans Stadium,” Everage said. “People should have an alternate area or neighborhood away from the stadium to trick or treat.

“Halloween is a fun night for both children and adults, but I simply want to remind parents, drivers and children that it is important to be safe.”

A release from the Troy Police Department said the Centers for Disease Control found young pedestrian deaths are four times higher on Halloween night.

The United States Department of Transportation reports fatalities between motorists and pedestrians happen between 4 and 8 p.m., which is prime time for trick or treaters.

The Troy Police offers several tips to ensure a safe and fun night Saturday:

For motorists:

-Slow down. Watch for children walking on roads, medians and curbs.

-Be alert pulling in and out of driveways, particularly watching for children darting from between parked vehicles or behind bushes or shrubs.

-Do not pass vehicles that have stopped in the roadway.

-If driving to a Halloween party, put your mask on after you park the car.

-Never drink and drive.

For parents:

-Always accompany children and supervise “trick or treat” activities.

-Instruct children to stay on sidewalks and to only cross the street at corners or crosswalks.

-Use a flashlight and wear reflective strips or patches on your clothing to be more visible.

-Ensure that costumes do not impede walking or driving ability.

For pedestrians:

-Always look left, right and left again before crossing the road.

-Walk. Never run from house to house or across the road.

-Only trick or treat at houses where the front door light or the front light porch is on.

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