Pinellas County, FL – The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is warning drivers to be extra cautious this Halloween, citing statistics that show children are twice as likely to be struck by a car on Halloween night than on any other night of the year.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, distracted driving poses a serious risk as kids excited for trick-or-treating may unexpectedly cross streets or dart between parked cars. Officials are urging drivers to slow down in neighborhoods, avoid using phones behind the wheel, and stay alert during peak evening hours.
Parents are also being asked to help keep children safe by ensuring they stick to sidewalks, use crosswalks, and wear visible or reflective costumes. “Halloween can be scary—but not for the wrong reasons,” the agency wrote in its post.
The sheriff’s office also shared a short safety video on social media featuring a masked figure holding up a stop hand signal, reinforcing the message that roadway safety is just as important as festive fun.
Authorities encourage both children and drivers to plan ahead and stay vigilant throughout Halloween night to prevent avoidable accidents.
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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