LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Halloween brings costumes, candy and excitement for kids, but it’s also one of the deadliest nights of the year for young pedestrians.
With trick-or-treaters heading out on Saturday, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is urging families and drivers to take precautions.
Research from JAMA Pediatrics indicates that pedestrian deaths jump 43 percent on Halloween. It also found that children ages 4 to 8 are 10 times more likely to be hit and killed than on other nights.
The danger peaks around 6 p.m., officials say, when fading light makes kids harder to see. Drivers are urged to slow down and stay alert.
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“Kids are excited about Halloween, and it’s easy for them to forget about the cars around them,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter.
“We want families to enjoy trick-or-treating and get home safely. A few simple precautions can help prevent a serious accident.”
The Red Cross encourages the following tips when out this Halloween:
For Drivers
- Slow Down: Lower speeds give drivers more time to react if kids suddenly step into the street.
- Turn on Headlights Early: Turn on headlights at dusk to make vehicles easier for trick-or-treaters and other drivers to see.
- Be Patient: Take extra time at stop signs, intersections and crosswalks, and double-check for pedestrians before proceeding.
- Stay Focused: Put phones away and watch for children, especially in busy neighborhoods.
- Avoid Busy Neighborhoods: If possible, take another route to avoid heavy pedestrian traffic, especially between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
- Never Drive Impaired: Use a designated driver or another safe ride home.
For Trick-or-Treaters
- Stay Visible: Wear reflective clothing, carry glow sticks or use flashlights so drivers can easily see trick-or-treaters.
- Walk, Don’t Run: Walking instead of running gives drivers more time to see children and react.
- Cross Safely: Cross at crosswalks or intersections and never dart out from between parked cars.
- Stick to Sidewalks: Use sidewalks whenever possible. If there are none, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Choose Safe Costumes: Make sure kids’ costumes fit properly and do not block their vision. Face paint can be a safer option than masks.
- Limit Distractions: Put phones away and pay attention to traffic while walking or supervising children.
The Red Cross offers free mobile apps to help families prepare, with the First Aid app providing step-by-step guidance for injuries and emergencies.
For more information, click here.
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