Alabama transportation officials urge extra caution for Halloween trick-or-treating With Halloween approaching, Alabama officials remind parents to ensure children's safety while trick-or-treating. Tips include using reflective gear, walking with kids, and practicing road safety to avoid pedestrian accidents. MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Halloween is creeping up on us, and with kids and parents set to fill the streets in search of candy and treats, Alabama transportation officials are urging drivers and pedestrians to practice extra caution. It's a time for the spooky and occult. While getting a little spooked can be fun, officials say you want it all in a safe, controlled environment.Alabama Drivers Urged to Watch for Kids"If you're driving, just watch out for kids unexpectedly just running out in the road," said Brantley Kirk, spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Transportation. "They're excited. They're not really paying a lot of attention. And some of them aren't used to walking around." In 2024, there were 120 pedestrian deaths in Alabama alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Kirk says visibility is key to preventing your child from becoming part of that statistic."You see them all the time, people trying to get the glow-in-the-dark and the flashing lights," Kirk said. "Those are great because it brings attention to you. You stand out, you get the attention of the driver.Boost Visibility With Reflective Halloween Gear" Even if a costume is on the darker side, she recommends adding flashing lights or something reflective. "Get some flashing lights or something reflective so that when you stand out, you want to stand out when you're crossing the street," she said. Before heading out on Halloween night, ALDOT recommends having a conversation with your child so they know what to expect."Let them know the dangers that can come across. Remind them to look both ways twice," Kirk said."Just talk to your kid, remind them of those safety things, but also walk with them and make sure you're watching out for cars as well. " Safety tips for trick-or-treaters and parents: Walk with children and watch for cars at all times Remind children to look both ways twice before crossing Add reflective tape, glow sticks or flashing lights to costumes Stick to well-lit streets and use crosswalks With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, many adults may go out to celebrate.If you do, make sure you have a safe plan to get home.Stay Sober and Plan Safe Halloween Ride Home"Always drive sober," Kirk said. "If you are not capable of driving, have a designated driver or call an Uber or a Lyft. Call somebody to give you a ride." "And of course, just still be mindful of everybody out later than usual," she added. Let the haunted houses and costumes be the only scary things this Halloween. Not reading this story on the WSFA News App? Get news alerts FASTER and FREE in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store!