Friday, October 19, 2007

Drivers Urged to Slow Down for Halloween

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- As ghosts, witches, mermaids and pirates will soon be trick-or-treating on streets across the
state, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation today urged motorists to slow down and watch for pedestrians.

With many communities preparing for trick-or-treat night and
neighborhood parades, PennDOT reminds motorists to obey speed limits and
watch for children walking along the road or who may run into the street.

Parents and guardians can also help keep children safe by buying or
making brightly-colored, highly-visible costumes that do not interfere with
a child's ability to see, hear or walk. Strips of reflective tape should be
added to darker-colored costumes and trick-or-treat bags.

Carrying a flashlight or glow stick is another way to help ensure
children can be seen by motorists. An adult should always accompany
children while they are trick-or-treating.

Along with warning motorists, PennDOT also encourages adults to review
safety behaviors with their children. Children should be reminded to pay
attention to their surroundings and dangers that traffic may present.
Children should walk instead of running when crossing streets and remember
to always look both ways for approaching cars before stepping off the curb.
Children are also encouraged to remain on sidewalks whenever possible.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

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