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Pedestrian safety

Since It’s Halloween, Watch for Kids When Driving

1:46 PM EDT on October 26, 2007

Halloween tips from DOT.

301660341_08857b81db.jpgFor Kids1. Kids 10 and under should trick-or-treat with a trusted adult2. Only trick-or-treat in familiar areas that are well lit3. Cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks4. Look left, right and left again when crossing; always walk, don't run, when crossing streets5. Make eye contact with drivers and watch for cars that are turning or backing up6. Walk on sidewalks or paths; if there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible7. Never dart out into the street or cross in between parked cars8. Wear light-colored, flame-retardant, costumes decorated with retro-reflective tape or stickers9. Wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes to prevent trips and falls10. Carry a flashlight or glow stick to increase visibility to drivers11. Wear face paint and makeup; a mask can restrict a child's vision

For Motorists12. Be especially alert in residential neighborhoods13. Drive more slowly and anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic on and near the road14. Be sure to drive with your full headlights on so you can spot children from greater distances15. Take extra time to actively look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs16. Remember that costumes can limit children's visibility and they may not be able to see your vehicle17. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully18. Remember that children are excited on this night and may move in unpredictable ways19. Remember that popular trick-or-treating hours are during the typical rush-hour period, between 5:30-9:30 p.m.20. Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and pedestrians

Photo: Andy.Schultz/Flickr 

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