Springfield, IL – As children prepare for Halloween festivities across Illinois, local law enforcement and safety officials are urging families to review simple but critical safety steps before heading out to trick-or-treat this Thursday evening.
According to the Illinois State Police, increased visibility and group safety are key to preventing accidents during peak trick-or-treating hours, typically between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. “We want kids to enjoy the night while staying visible and alert,” officials said in a safety statement issued this week.
Authorities recommend five main precautions:
- Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry flashlights or glow sticks to stay visible to drivers.
- Use the buddy system — children should travel in groups and avoid walking alone.
- Follow traffic signals and posted signs, using sidewalks whenever possible.
- Look for vehicles in all directions, including those turning at intersections or driveways.
- Cross only at designated crosswalks or corners instead of mid-block crossings.
Police also encourage parents to accompany younger children, check all candy before consumption, and plan routes in well-lit neighborhoods. Drivers are reminded to slow down and stay alert, particularly in residential areas where kids may dart into the street unexpectedly.
Halloween night typically sees an uptick in pedestrian-related incidents nationwide, making these reminders especially important. Safety officials stress that with extra care, families can ensure a fun and worry-free evening for all.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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