Contact:
Jill Mrotek Glenzinski, WisDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian coordinator
(608) 267-7757, jill.mrotekglenzinski@dot.wi.gov
Safety is a top priority for children as they roam neighborhoods on Halloween
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) encourages parents and caregivers to give their little ghosts and goblins a refresher course on safe walking and biking this Halloween.
“Children get really excited when it comes time to trick or treat, and that excitement can lead to poor judgment,” said Jill Mrotek Glenzinski, WisDOT’s bicycle and pedestrian coordinator. “We want kids to understand that there are dangers associated with walking and biking, especially when it’s dark.”
Children need to be visible. They should wear bright colored or reflective costumes and accessories, such as arm bands and glow sticks. For trick or treaters walking from house to house, a flashlight is a must-have; while lights and reflectors are essential for those making the rounds by bike.
WisDOT recommends these additional Halloween safety tips:
· Travel in groups to be more visible to passing drivers.
· Stay on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
· If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
· Never cut across yards or use alleys.
· Only cross the street at established crosswalks; never cross between parked cars.
· Always wear a helmet when biking and avoid wearing loose fitting clothing.
“We’re also asking all drivers to be extra cautious when traveling through residential neighborhoods Thursday night,” added Glenzinski. “Slow down and watch out for children who may not be paying attention to what’s going on around them.”
For additional walking and biking safety information, visit WisDOT’s kids safety web site at: www.dot.wi.gov/safety/kids/index.htm.
