Trick or treat

Ghost and goblins, spooks galore drive safely or scary witches will be at your door. In case you haven’t figured it out yet it is Halloween! Many of us will be taking to the road this week, going to scare and have a good time at parties and haunted theme events. Here are some tips to prepare drivers and riders on this eventful season from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards Richard Gladman.

• Look out for the little ones. Many little children will be taking to the road on a candy hunt. Although many will be accompanied by an adult it is also best to drive slowly in residential areas as children can be very unpredictable
• Check the weather – if its wet and windy then looking out for cars will be the last thing on a soaked pedestrians mind as they rush from house to house
• Dress accordingly.  Try to carry your costume in the car as opposed to wearing it to the event. Some costumes such as masks can obstruct your vision. It is better to book a taxi rather than driving
• Make sure you have a designated driver if you are planning on drinking
• Try to keep the noise down.  Understandably you are going to be with your mates but if you have pulled the short straw and are driving it is vital to have full concentration on the road
• Have fun but keep it PG. Not everyone on the street is out with good intentions. If you do see anything that alarms you, we recommend dialling 999 and having the police deal with it

Richard said: “Long flowing costumes and the little ones on a major sugar rush can be a recipe for disaster on the roads.  No one wants to put a damper on the fun but just taking a few moments to check everyone is safe before you set off will ensure the evening is memorable for all the right reasons.”