Halloween Night Poses Hidden Hazards and Over 100 Fatalities

ITASCA, Ill., Oct. 30, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In 2016, 107 people died on the roads the night of October 31^st, and 21 percent of those killed were pedestrians.ⁱ October is the second deadliest month on the roads, according to NSC Injury Facts. With crowds of trick-or-treaters expected in neighborhoods around the country, caution is urged for all out on the roads during the upcoming Halloween holiday.

Most crash-related fatalities for pedestrians occur when it is dark, according to NHTSA, and pedestrian fatalities spike during Halloween night in particular. Increased pedestrian traffic, alcohol consumption, and lower visibility from costumes, masks, as well as shorter daylight hours increase the risk.

To help ensure safety, the National Safety Council recommends the following safety tips for both drivers and trick-or-treaters:  

• Avoid masks, which can obstruct vision
• A responsible adult should accompany young children
• All pedestrians should keep heads up and avoid running across the street
• Keep trick-or-treaters visible with reflective tape or glow sticks on costumes and bags
• Watch for children, and enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully
• Always driving attentively and disconnect from your cell phone, even hands-free
• Designate an alcohol and drug-free driver or arrange alternate transportation
• Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween

Visit nsc.org for more tips to stay safe not just on Halloween but year-round.

About the National Safety Council
The National Safety Council (nsc.org) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to eliminate preventable deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the road through leadership, research, education and advocacy. Founded in 1913 and chartered by Congress, NSC advances this mission by partnering with businesses, government agencies, elected officials and the public in areas where we can make the most impact.

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ⁱ According to NSC analysis of NHTSA FARS data, 2016

SOURCE National Safety Council

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