Halloween is a time when thousands of trick-or-treaters dressed up in their favorite costumes will be out and about having a good time collecting candy. For other adults, that means heading to local bars, restaurants or house parties to celebrate the holiday.
In partnership with the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), FVPD is encouraging everyone to not put yourself and others at risk by choosing to drink and drive. If you plan to drink, plan a sober ride home.
“Halloween should be a fun night for kids and adults,” Sergeant Mike Parsons said. “By planning ahead, abiding by the rules of the road and driving sober, everyone can enjoy a safe night out.”
In an effort to crack down on those who choose to put others at risk by driving impaired, FVPD may be conducting saturation patrols Halloween night between 5PM and 4AM.
Your FVPD offers these tips for drivers, partygoers and parents out with children trick-or-treaters Halloween night:
- Avoid driving through residential areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be.
- This is a night with heavy foot traffic and another reason to slow down, be extra cautious and obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Watch for children in costumes that may be harder to see at night. Look out for trick-or-treaters who may cross the street mid-block, or from behind parked cars.
- Decide before going out whether you plan to drink or drive. You can’t do both.
- If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver, take a cab, ride-share or public transit. Anything that doesn’t involve you getting behind the wheel.
- Party hosts: Offer non-alcoholic drinks to designated drivers and don’t allow anyone who may be impaired leave.
- Parents should plan their trick-or-treat route ahead of time and avoid busy streets.
- Have your children wear visible costumes that are easy to walk in and see. Light-colored costumes are best. Use retro-reflective tape.
- Carry a flashlight so drivers can see you.
Whether by bicycle, car, motorcycle or on foot, FVPD encourages everyone Halloween night, and every other night, to go safely.