HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDS MOTORISTS TO WATCH FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS THIS HALLOWEEN

For Release: Immediate
Date: October 28, 2003

Everette Clendenin
Phone:(919) 733-5027 (Ext. 233)

HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDS MOTORISTS TO WATCH FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS THIS HALLOWEEN

RALEIGH -- As darkness settles this Friday night little ghosts and goblins will come out to play. In hopes that all return home safe and sound, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be safe and responsible this Halloween.

"Halloween is a fun time for both children and adults, but oftentimes people act or drive carelessly placing themselves or children in danger," said Colonel Richard W. Holden, Commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. "Children will be on the streets, and motorists need to take extra care to watch for them."

To prevent tragedy, motorists are urged to wear their seatbelts, buckle all children in seatbelts or child restraint seats, don't drink and drive, drive slowly in neighborhoods, and to be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters.

Safety tips for trick-or-treaters include:

Look both ways before crossing roadways. Always walk; don't run.

Cross the roadway at intersections and crosswalks when possible.

Wear costumes that are light in color, and short enough to avoid tripping.

Reflective material of some kind on the costume is strongly encouraged.

Avoid masks. Use face paint instead for better visibility and peripheral vision.

Travel in groups with adult supervision.

Do not enter the cars and/or homes of strangers.

Carry a flashlight and make sure an adult accompanies small children.

Never trick-or-treat in unfamiliar areas.

Make sure children know their home phone number and how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost. Citizens can report highway problems to the Highway Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) on their cellular phones. The toll free call goes directly to the nearest Highway Patrol communication center.

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