Young children are 10 times more likely to be struck by cars on Halloween than on any other night, so the Red Cross is urging drivers to stay alert to help keep trick-or-treaters safe.
Halloween is a night of costumes, candy and excitement for children, but it’s also the most dangerous night of the year for young pedestrians. With trick-or-treaters expected in neighborhoods on Saturday, the American Red Cross of Utah is reminding families and drivers to take simple precautions to help prevent accidents.
The risk of pedestrian fatalities is 43% higher on Halloween than on other evenings, according to research published in JAMA Pediatrics, a journal of the American Medical Association. The study, which analyzed 42 years of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, also found that children ages 4 to 8 are 10 times more likely to be struck by a vehicle and killed on Halloween than on other evenings.
“Kids are excited about Halloween, and it’s easy for them to forget about the cars around them,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “We want families to enjoy trick-or-treating and get home safely. A few simple precautions can help prevent a serious accident.”
The risk is greatest around 6 p.m., when more children are out trick-or-treating and fading daylight can make them harder for drivers to see. Young trick-or-treaters may also cross streets unexpectedly or emerge from between parked cars, making it especially important for drivers to slow down and stay alert in neighborhoods.
Red Cross of Utah Halloween Safety Tips
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.
Be Prepared with Red Cross Apps
The Red Cross offers free mobile apps to help families prepare for emergencies. The First Aid app provides step-by-step guidance for common injuries and medical emergencies, including CPR. The Emergency app offers weather alerts, shelter information and disaster preparedness advice. Both are available in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.
