Blaine Police Urge Extra Caution as Halloween Falls on a Friday

BLAINE, MN — The Blaine Police Department is reminding residents to make safety a top priority this Halloween, as the holiday’s rare Friday occurrence this year is expected to bring more children out later into the night and heavier vehicle traffic from weekend festivities.

With streets likely to be busy on the evening of Friday, October 31, officers are asking both drivers and parents to stay alert and help ensure a safe night for all.

“Expect little ghouls and goblins walking in and near the streets,” the department cautioned in a statement. “Drive slowly, stay alert, and remember that distraction can be deadly.”

Tips for Drivers

The Blaine Police Department outlined several key safety reminders for motorists:

• Drive slowly and stay alert — children in costumes can be hard to see.
• Double-check crosswalks and intersections before moving through.
• Use headlights early to spot trick-or-treaters in dark costumes.
• Watch for pedestrians near driveways and front yards.
• Put the phone away — avoid distractions while driving.
• Report suspected impaired drivers immediately to law enforcement.

National Guidance and Resources

These recommendations align with national safety guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Safe Kids Worldwide, both of which stress heightened vigilance on Halloween — one of the deadliest nights of the year for pedestrians.

According to NHTSA, nearly half of all traffic fatalities on Halloween night in recent years have involved an alcohol-impaired driver. The agency’s “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving” campaign urges motorists to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, and never get behind the wheel after drinking.

• nhtsa.gov/halloween-safety-tips
• safekids.org/blog/be-seen-halloween

Safe Kids Worldwide also advises parents and children to “be seen” by carrying flashlights or glow sticks, wearing reflective tape, and crossing streets at designated intersections.

Community Message

The Blaine Police Department’s Halloween reminder is part of a broader seasonal safety push observed by law enforcement agencies nationwide. With the combination of early nightfall, festive gatherings, and increased pedestrian activity, officials say attentiveness behind the wheel and visibility on foot are critical to preventing tragedy.

“Safety is everyone’s responsibility,” the department emphasized. “We want families to enjoy Halloween night — and to get home safely.”

The Blaine Police Department extends its best wishes to all residents for a fun, safe, and memorable Halloween.

MinneapoliMedia