The Road Safety Commission has issued a safety reminder to all WA road users to be extra cautious and alert as pedestrian volumes increase on local roads during Halloween evening.
“Halloween is becoming a popular activity amongst children in WA, and with the day falling on a Saturday this year, there is likely to be an increase in participation, said Road Safety Commissioner, Adrian Warner.
“Children, particularly under the age of 10 can be unpredictable and act impulsively when out on the road.”
“They are often energetic and excited, which can hamper their ability to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles, so I urge all road users to slow down and take extra care this Saturday.” he said.
Road Safety Commission statistics show that on average since 2017, 10 children under the age of 16 lose their lives annually on WA roads.
So far in 2020, six children under the age of 16 have lost their lives.
Families are encouraged to sit down and speak with their trick or treaters about road safety, in particular how to cross the road carefully.
Drivers are also reminded to be extra cautious when entering and exiting their driveways as children cannot always be seen.
Road safety tips for trick or treaters:
- Talk about the importance of road safety with the family prior to Halloween.
- Make sure your child is accompanied by a responsible person.
- When possible, always use the footpath to walk between houses.
- Remind everyone how to cross the road safely, holding the children’s hands while crossing.
- Some roadsides are full of parked cars, so show the children how to safely check for traffic before deciding to cross.
- Lighter coloured costumes are more easily seen by drivers, particularly as the sun sets.
- Some costumes may obscure the vision of trick or treaters, so ensure those wearing masks or headwear that covers the face have assistance.
- Be aware of vehicles entering and exiting driveways.
Road safety tips for other road users:
- Slow down in areas where children are trick or treating.
- Turn on your headlights to make the vehicle more visible to pedestrians and other road users.
- Be alert as children can be unpredictable and run onto the road quickly.
- Don’t be distracted, by your phone, looking for something or checking your make-up, as taking your eyes off the road for two seconds at 60km/h means you will drive for 33 metres virtually blindfolded.
- Be extra vigilant for children when you enter or exit your driveway.
- Stay off the roads if you have consumed alcohol or drugs that may affect your ability to drive.
