As ghosts, ghouls and little superheroes get ready to hit the streets this Halloween, ICBC is reminding drivers and pedestrians across BC to make safety their top priority.
According to ICBC, Halloween night consistently ranks among the most dangerous evenings of the year for crashes involving pedestrians.
On Vancouver Island, an average of 31 people are injured in 121 crashes every Halloween.
“Halloween should be full of fun, not fright,” said Attorney General Niki Sharma. “Slow down, watch for pedestrians, and if you’re celebrating, plan a safe way home.”
Kathleen Nadalin, ICBC’s road safety manager, said drivers need to expect the unexpected. “Halloween isn’t a typical night on our roads,” she said.
“We’re asking drivers to stay focused and avoid distractions, and for pedestrians to make sure they’re visible with flashlights or reflective gear.”
ICBC’s top tips for Halloween safety:
- Drive slowly and stay alert in residential areas since children may cross the road unexpectedly
- Keep phones out of sight while driving to avoid distractions
- Use headlights, even at dusk, to make it easier to spot trick-or-treaters
- Plan a safe way home if you’ll be drinking or celebrating
- Help kids be seen by adding reflective tape to costumes and bringing a flashlight
- Stick to familiar routes and use sidewalks or crosswalks whenever possible
ICBC has also teamed up with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services to share online safety reminders, encouraging everyone to think about safety before getting behind the wheel.
The weather could make trick-or-treating a little more challenging this year. Environment Canada has issued a wind warning for northern Vancouver Island with gusts of up to 110 km/h expected overnight Thursday into Friday.
Related: Rainy conditions predicted for Greater Victoria trick-or-treaters this Halloween
In Greater Victoria, rain is expected throughout the day and evening with temperatures around 10°C.
ICBC reminds drivers to take extra care on wet roads, as visibility can drop quickly and stopping distances increase.
Whether you’re out collecting candy or driving through a neighbourhood, slow down, stay visible and help make sure everyone gets home safely.
