Halloween Can Be a Scary Night for Trick-or-Treaters And Motorists - BE CAREFUL OUT THERE!

LOS ANGELES--Oct. 3, 20031, 2003--The combination of trick-or-treaters and the end of daylight-savings time can conjure up some potentially scary moments for drivers and pedestrians, warns the Automobile Club of Southern California. Nearly half of all pedestrian fatalities involving children occur between 4 and 8 p.m., prime time for trick-or-treaters.

"Young children out trick-or-treating are particularly at risk because they are usually out near dusk when visibility is lowest," said Arline Dillman, Ph.D., traffic safety manager for the Auto Club. "Since Halloween takes place just 6 days after the end of daylight-savings time, sunset will be occurring an hour earlier that we're accustomed to. The key for drivers and pedestrians is to 'see and be seen.'"

The Auto Club recommends the following trick-or-treat tips:

-- Parents or an older teen should accompany young trick-or-treaters. If a parent or adult cannot accompany children, they should trick-or-treat with a group of friends.

-- Carry a flashlight both to light the way and to make children visible to motorists.

-- If trick-or-treating at night, wear a light colored costume with reflective tape.

-- Using face make-up is safer than wearing a mask. If a mask is worn, remove it before crossing the street to improve the ability to see oncoming traffic.

-- Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance and pick well-lit streets. Parents should be familiar with streets on which children will be trick-or-treating. Children should only go to homes where residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome. Children should not enter homes or apartments unless accompanied by an adult.

-- Cross streets only at corners, not between parked cars or in the middle of the block.

The Auto Club recommends the following Halloween safety tips for motorists:

-- Stay alert for children crossing streets at all locations, not just corners and intersections.

-- Drive slowly in residential areas.

-- Don't run red lights. Give yourself time to reach your destination.

-- Check vehicles' headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals to ensure they are in proper working condition.

-- Clean windows and headlights to improve visibility.