EAST CENTRAL — SGI is giving safety tips to the costumed children running from house to house demanding candy this Halloween.
“It’s an exciting time for kids (and, let’s face it, also for all of us parents who look forward to raiding their bags at the end of the night),” said a media release from the insurance company.
For trick-or-treaters walking on the streets, SGI has the following tips:
- Kids are never too young to learn about traffic safety! Explain to your kids the importance of safety while trick-or-treating:
- Trick-or-treat on one side of the street at a time. Crossing back-and-forth across the street in the middle of the block, or jaywalking, is extremely dangerous because drivers don't expect to see you there.
- Look both ways before crossing the street and use crosswalks. Avoid wearing masks or costumes that may obstruct your vision.
- Don't assume drivers see you and will stop! Make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street to make sure they see you and are stopping for you.
- Be seen sooner – if you're trick-or-treating in the evening, wear a glow stick or reflective markings or carry a flashlight.
- Use sidewalks or pathways, if you can. If you have to walk on the road, walk on the shoulder of the left lane, facing oncoming traffic. Obey the “Walk” and “Don't Walk” signals at intersections. A blinking “Don't Walk” signal means the traffic light is about to change. Wait on the sidewalk until the pedestrian symbol appears.
- Avoid distractions while walking, including smartphones and headphones. You don't want to unknowingly walk into the path of a vehicle.
SGI is also asking drivers to be more careful on the roads tonight, giving the following tips:
- Pedestrians have the right of way at marked and unmarked crosswalks – even when they're approaching a stop sign or yield sign. Stop before entering the intersection so they can cross the street safely.
- Drive cautiously around young children. They're tiny and that makes them hard to see, especially in some costumes! They think cars can stop instantly, so be prepared.
- Reduce your speed in residential neighbourhoods, especially school and playground zones.
- Never pass a stopped vehicle without first checking for pedestrians crossing the street.
- Keep an eye out when turning. Drivers often turn their heads to look for other vehicles and accidentally ignore pedestrians crossing in front of them.
- Ensure your headlights and tail lights are on at dusk so pedestrians can see you more easily.
- Don't drink and drive! If you're attending an event that serves alcohol, plan a safe and sober ride.
