While there are many spooky and scary parts of Halloween, Manitoba roads shouldn’t be one of them – on the eve of trick or treating, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is reminding motorists and pedestrians to do their part to ensure everyone gets home safe this October 31.

With 22 pedestrians killed this year, protecting the youngest Manitobans on this night centered on fun has never been more important.

“Losing even one life as the result of a collision is too many,” said Maria Campos, MPI’s Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “Through multiple channels, MPI is committed to making sure everyone heading out on Halloween this year understands that they have a role to play in keeping our roads safe.”

Over 90,000 wearable safety lights distributed to schools, daycares

MPI runs its Halloween Pedestrian Safety Promotion Program to help address the increased risks that this night brings to Manitoba’s streets. The program combines education initiatives and impactful safety items and has been in place since 2000.

To help every child be seen while out trick or treating, MPI has sent over 90,000 wearable safety lights to more than 400 schools and daycares across the province. These flashing 47mm LED lights can be added to any costume and also be used year-round.

As part of the program, the Corporation also distributes age-appropriate classroom activities for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students, as well as letters encouraging parents/guardians to instill responsible road safety habits as early as possible.

“MPI is committed to creating safer roads for all Manitobans and that starts with building a strong foundation of good habits at a young age,” said Campos. “Halloween is an accessible way to introduce the shared responsibility we all have when travelling on our roads, whether we’re driving, walking or cycling.”

Road safety tips for all

To keep our streets safe for ghosts and goblins of all ages, MPI urges everyone heading out on Halloween to follow these road safety tips:

For motorists:

  • Don’t speed – slow down, especially when you see children walking.
  • Don’t assume children see your vehicle, they could run out in front of you.
  • Watch for children who may dart between parked vehicles. Be prepared to stop at a moment’s notice.
  • Stop and yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians about to cross at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
  • Do not to pass traffic ahead of you that is slowing down or stopped for pedestrians using crosswalks. Not only is it unsafe, but it’s also illegal.

For trick-or-treaters:

  • Look both ways for traffic before crossing the street. Use corners and crosswalks as they are the safest places to cross.
  • Always walk – never run – across the street and never cross between parked cars.
  • Wait for cars to come to a full stop before crossing.
  • Be seen by wearing reflective clothing or costumes.
  • In neighbourhoods where there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic the left-hand edge of the roadway.