Santa Maria police increase patrols during Halloween

A 2012 study by State Farm showed children are twice as likely to die on Halloween than on any other day.

Santa Maria police are increasing their presence on the October 31st to make sure trick-or-treaters make it back home safely. Especially because DUI’s are common in town.

“What a horrible combination of having a drunk driver on the road with so many kids or pedestrians,” said Lt. Russell Mengle of Santa Maria P.D. “We want the drivers really to slow down. Plan ahead, take a few extra moments to get to your destination.”

The State Farm study found that nearly 70 percent of pedestrians were hit away from a crosswalk or intersection. Most of the fatalities were teenagers.

“Go out and accompany the children. Don’t send them out on their own,” Mengle recommended.

Officers said parents should check where they’re sending their little ones, too.

“Megan’s List does have the location of the registered sex offenders. That’s something people should be aware of anyway, on any given day,” said Mengle.

Experts also recommend dressing trick-or-treaters in reflective tape, going out in groups, and carrying a flashlight.