With Halloween landing on Saturday night, families across Idaho will be out later than usual, and the streets will be filled with costumed children darting between homes. AAA Idaho and Oregon issued a straightforward reminder: drive safely, stay alert, and protect our kids.
Key safety actions for drivers
- Expect more pedestrians. Children may cross streets quickly, and costumes can make them harder to see.
- Eliminate distractions. Put away phones and focus on the road, especially in residential neighborhoods.
- Plan a safe ride home. If you’ve been drinking, use a designated driver or a ride‑hailing service instead of getting behind the wheel.
- Travel at appropriate speeds. Slow down in neighborhoods and consider taking alternate routes to avoid heavy traffic areas.
- Don’t rely solely on backup cameras. Check the area around your vehicle before backing out of driveways or garages.
AAA safety expert Mathew Conde explained, “Kids are excited for Halloween, and the fact that it falls on a Saturday means we could see an increase in dangerous interactions between drivers and pedestrians. Every driver should have a plan to make it home safely, especially if they’ve been celebrating with alcohol. No child should pay the price for a reckless driving decision.”
Why these reminders matter
Costumes often limit visibility, and the excitement of the night can lead children to run across streets without looking. By slowing down and staying vigilant, drivers can help ensure that Halloween remains a fun, safe tradition for families throughout Idaho.
Let’s all commit to a slow, careful ride this Halloween and every night we’re on the road.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.