DOT Safety Education News

Have fun but be safe this Halloween. Bright colored and reflective clothing help you stay visible when walking after dark.

Each year DOT, via Safe Kids NYC, partners with FedEx and other coalition members to distribute "Safe Halloween" information and retro-reflectors for "Boo at the Bronx Zoo." Throughout the fall months, DOT conducts workshops and activities to promote pedestrian safety and visibility.

There are many things that affect our vision on the road as pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you stay visible and alert on the street, especially as the days grow shorter:

• Selective Perception means that people have a tendency to see the things they are looking for, for example drivers watching for other motor vehicles. Being a conspicuous pedestrian can help drivers see you!
• Be aware that elements in the Environment such as rain, snow, smoke, fog, shadows and glare impact visibility. Drivers and pedestrians should proceed with extra caution in these conditions.
• Darkness or low-light conditions account for over 1/2 of fatal pedestrian and over 1/3 of fatal bicycle crashes. You can be more easily seen in low-light when wearing light colored clothing and by using retro-reflective materials.
• An Obstructed View can mean danger. Pedestrians should move to the edge of a visual screen, such double-parked vehicles, to look for traffic before entering the roadway.
• Many times pedestrians and bicyclists are visible but unseen to Distracted Drivers. Drivers should reduce distractions inside the car to best concentrate on the task of driving.

source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration

For Trick-or-Treaters & Parents:

• Kids under 12 should trick-or-treat with a trusted adult.
• Only trick-or-treat in familiar areas that are well lit.
• Remember to stick to sidewalks and paths for walking and use crosswalks for crossing.
• Wear light-colored costumes with retro-reflective tape or stickers to be seen and carry flashlights or glow sticks. Avoid masks that can restrict your vision.

For Drivers:

• Be especially alert in residential areas. Drive slowly and anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic.
• Use your headlights for better visibility of pedestrians.
• Remember that costumes can limit children's visibility and that their excitement may cause them to move unpredictably.

Halloween Safety Resources & Activities:

• FDNY Halloween Safety Tips
• American Academy of Pediatrics Halloween Tips in English & Spanish
• American Red Cross Halloween Tips (pdf)
• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Kid's Halloween Scramble (pdf)