Springfield, IL – Expect heavier foot traffic and darker commutes tonight as trick-or-treating peaks statewide between 5 and 9 p.m. The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association (ISA) is urging drivers and families to slow down, light up, and keep watch—especially on rural roads and unlit shoulders where visibility drops fast.
According to a Thursday news release from the ISA, Executive Director Jim Kaitschuk said many member counties include rural neighborhoods and country roads that are “especially dark this time of year,” adding that “a few extra seconds of caution can make all the difference.” Key reminders for motorists include driving slowly in residential and rural areas, eliminating distractions, and using high beams when safe to scan for pedestrians and parked vehicles along shoulders.
Parents and trick-or-treaters are encouraged to boost visibility with reflective tape, glow sticks, or flashlights; stick to sidewalks where available; and cross only at corners or crosswalks. Costumes should fit properly and not obstruct vision or movement, and adults are urged to inspect all candy before children eat it, avoiding homemade items from people you don’t know.
Homeowners can help by keeping walkways well-lit, securing pets, and reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement. The ISA notes the association represents all 102 Illinois counties and promotes public safety and professional law-enforcement practices. “Working together, we can ensure this holiday is filled with treats, not tragedies,” Kaitschuk said.
Tonight’s bottom line for Illinois: slow down, stay visible, and keep phones down—especially in rural stretches and around neighborhood crossings.
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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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