Fairfax County, VA – As Halloween approaches, the Fairfax County Police Department is reminding residents to take a few simple precautions to stay safe throughout the weekend.
Whether you’re navigating local neighborhoods behind the wheel or trick-or-treating, a little extra caution goes a long way toward keeping the night fun for everyone.
Safety Tips for Drivers:
- Slow down: Reduce your speed in residential neighborhoods and areas with increased pedestrian traffic.
- Stay alert: Watch for pedestrians, especially children who may cross the street unexpectedly.
- Eliminate distractions: Put your phone away and keep your full attention on the road.
- Use caution at intersections: Watch for pedestrians when turning, entering driveways, or approaching crosswalks.
- Never pass stopped vehicles: Drivers may be yielding to pedestrians crossing the street.
- Check before backing up: Exercise extreme caution when backing out of driveways or parking spaces.
Safety Tips for Parents and Guardians:
- Be visible: Carryflashlights or glow sticks and add reflective materials tocostumes.
- Establish a route: Stick to familiar, well-lit neighborhoods and establish a route for children trick-or-treating without adult supervision.
- Cross safely: Use crosswalks and intersections, look both ways, and avoid crossing between parked vehicles.
- Stay together: Ensure children travel in groups for better visibility and safety.
- Check candy: Check all collected candy in a well-lit area prior to consumption.
Celebrating Halloween? Plan a Safe Ride Home
If your Halloween plans include alcohol, make arrangements for a safe ride before heading out. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or arrange for another safe way home. Never drive impaired.
The Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) is offering its SoberRide® program Friday and Saturday nights, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., providing eligible riders with free rides home during the Halloween weekend.
