The City of Norman is recommending that families celebrate Halloween and Trick-or-Treat on Friday, October 30, rather than Saturday, October 31, when the University of Oklahoma will host a home football game.

The decision is focused on public safety.

Halloween already brings increased pedestrian and vehicle activity to Norman neighborhoods. This year, that activity would coincide with a major home football game, creating additional traffic and pedestrian safety concerns, particularly in residential areas surrounding the University of Oklahoma and Campus Corner.

Game day traffic will also result in changes, restrictions and closures along several major roads and routes throughout Norman. With significantly more vehicles and pedestrians expected in and around the university area, drivers and families could face a more challenging environment for trick-or-treating safely.

Public safety personnel will also be focused on managing the increased demands associated with game day, including traffic management, crowd safety, and emergency response. That means fewer resources will be available for proactive Halloween-related enforcement and activities.

SAFETY TIPS & REMINDERS

As celebratory events draws closer, the City of Norman and Norman Police Department would like to remind residents to consider the following safety tips during fall festivities, especially those who plan on trick-or-treating.

For Pedestrians:

• Trick-or-treat in your own neighborhood. Plan a trick-or-treating route in a familiar, well-lit area.
• Ensure trick-or-treaters are accompanied by an adult and walk in groups.
• Make sure children and accompanying adults wear bright, easily visible costumes and clothing and carry a flashlight or some other alternative lighting source.
• Never go into a stranger’s home or accept a ride from someone you don’t know.
• Walk on sidewalks wherever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and to prevent accidents or injury.
• Always cross the street at a corner or an intersection using traffic signals and crosswalks, and remember to look both ways before entering the roadway.

For Motorists:

• Drive slowly, eliminate distractions and remain attentive in neighborhoods.
• Use EXTREME CAUTION when driving in areas where street lighting is poor or in case of inclement weather.
• Enter and exit driveways carefully as children are quickly moving through these areas.
• Utilize a designated driver if you plan to attend a Halloween party where alcohol will be served.

The Department of Parks and Recreation will also host the Annual Run For Your Life 5k with a 1-Mile Treat-or-Treat Trot this year beginning at 6 p.m. on October 24 at Ruby Grant Park, 3110 W Franklin Road. Learn more or sign up to participate at NormanParks.com.

###