Illinois State Police Director Sam W. Nolen said, “Many children begin trick-or-treating after dark making them hard to see. Motorists should be watchful for children darting out between parked cars and walking on roadways, while homeowners should take extra precaution when exiting driveways and alleys. Parents can ensure their children’s safety by dressing them in light colored costumes or by adding reflective tape to dark clothing, making them more visible to motorists.”
 

The ISP offers the following Halloween safety tips:

• Motorists should reduce their speed in residential areas and watch for children.
• Trick-or-treaters should walk, not run, from house to house, and always use sidewalks and crosswalks.
• Adults should accompany young children trick-or-treating. Children should never enter a home or an apartment building unless accompanied by an adult.
• Trick-or-treating should be restricted to homes with porch or outside lights illuminated.
• Children should only visit familiar neighborhoods and residences.
• Trick-or-treaters should carry flashlights or light sticks.
• Children under the age of 12 should have their name, address, and phone number hidden in costumes in case they become lost.
• Parents should establish a return time for those over 12 years of age.
• Children should be dressed in short clothing to avoid tripping.
• Trick-or-treaters should wear masks on top of their head between stops to provide for maximum breathing and vision. Face painting may be an alternative to masks.