Montgomery, AL – Halloween is a season of celebration and fun however, it’s equally important to be mindful of safety during this time of year. This year, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is dedicated to ensuring that Halloween is safe and enjoyable for all. In addition to providing security guidelines, ALEA provides an online registry of sex offenders to keep parents updated on sex offenders who are registered in their areas.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor emphasizes the importance of being safe at Halloween, and especially this year since Halloween is on Tuesday. Taylor says that the normal working day commute will be a part of the time that children will be out in the street to enjoy trick-or-treating or other holiday events. Taylor declares, “No matter how you and your family will celebrate the holiday We hope that everyone gets home safely and sound at time to end the day.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that Halloween is one of the three most dangerous days in terms of pedestrian fatalities and injuries. According to the National Safety Council (NSC) adds that children are two times more likely to be struck by a vehicle in the Halloween season and be killed than on any other day in the year.
Colonel Jon Archer, Director of the ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, emphasizes the importance of protecting children’s safety during Halloween. He emphasizes the importance of meticulous planning and awareness in everything from selecting appropriate costumes to recognizing the night’s nuances. He recommends that pedestrians ensure that they are more visible particularly at night and at night, with a torch, a flashing strobe light or wearing reflective clothes. Archer stresses the importance of safe driving and avoiding distractions or slowing down, as well as being attentive to children who are on the roadway.
As well as these safety guidelines, ALEA recommends that parents look up the online sex offender registry to make sure their children do not go to unsafe places for Halloween.
Tips to be Safe for Trick-or-Treaters:
Be sure to stay on the walkways, and stay clear of walking through streets when you can. If there aren’t sidewalks and you are walking on the left-hand part of the street with the traffic in front of you.
Be sure to look both ways and watch for traffic prior to walking across the road.
Be on the lookout for cars that are turning or reversing.
Cross streets only at intersections using traffic signals and crossings.
You can trick-or-treat with the company of an older person is unable to accompany you.
Inform your parents of your location.
• Carry a flashlight that has new batteries, but be careful about shining it directly into drivers eye.
For Parents:
Make sure costumes for Halloween are fire-resistant and light-colored for greater visibility.
Encourage the use of glow sticks or retro-reflective tape for costumes as well as treat buckets.
Don’t wear costumes that block vision. Instead, choose masks that match with costumes.
Supervise children who are younger than 12 years old and help them adhere to the familiar surroundings and well-established routes.
Encourage children to visit homes that are well lit and not visit a home of a stranger or garage.
For drivers:
Eliminate distractions when driving and pay attention to the road and your trick-or-treaters.
In residential areas, be aware of traffic signals and signs, and be aware of children who may run across the street.
Be aware of children crossing the street because they might not be aware of the traffic, and may cross the block mid-block or in between parked vehicles.
Be cautious when crossing driveways and alleys, particularly when you are backing up or turning.
Make sure you turn on your headlights so that you are noticeable, especially in daylight.
By heeding these safety guidelines every person can make a difference to having a safer and more enjoyable Halloween for everyone. ALEA invites the community to be vigilant and take obligation to ensure that the celebration is a joyful time for families with children.
