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SUN CHRONICLE STAFF

With Halloween falling this year on a Saturday, AAA advises young and old revelers to make advance plans to stay safe.

"When Halloween falls during the middle of the work week, parties and events are spread out over several days to include the weekend. With Halloween on a Saturday this year, most festivities are expected to take place that evening, putting a large number of adult party-goers on the road the same night as trick-or-treaters," Lloyd Albert of AAA said. "Unfortunately, we also see a sharp rise nationally in the number of motor vehicle fatalities on Halloween when it is on a weekend, so it's critical for both motorists and pedestrians to take extra caution."

Motor vehicle fatalities increase an average of 40 percent when Oct. 31 is on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, compared to other days of the week, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

AAA offers the following safety tips: Party-goers and hosts

If intending to consume alcohol, make plans to get home safely by selecting a designated driver or ensuring cab service is available from the party location.

Consider an overnight stay at the home where the party is being held. If participating in festivities elsewhere, look into hotel accommodations within walking distance.

Have safe transportation options ready. If hosting a party with alcohol, compile a list of phone numbers, including local cab companies and any organizations offering designated driver services.

Plan your travel route carefully. Try to avoid cutting through residential areas that will likely have a large number of trick-or-treaters. If providing directions to a party, make sure not to route guests through residential areas unnecessarily.

Take care of designated drivers and offer non-alcoholic drink options. Serve plenty of food to partygoers. Do not drink on empty stomachs.

Trick-or-treaters and parents

Look for light, bright, and reflective costumes that make trick-or-treaters easy to see. Add reflective tape to costumes and treat buckets and bags to increase visibility.

Have trick-or-treaters try on, walk and play in costumes and shoes in advance to check fit. Make sure nothing comes loose or might cause the child to trip. Check that wigs or other accessories do not obstruct the child's view.

Review safety precautions with children. Include traffic safety rules such as stay on the sidewalk, cross at crosswalks, avoid walking in front of, behind or between parked cars, and stop at driveways to make sure no vehicles are coming in and out. Plan trick-or-treating route and supervision in advance. Avoid areas with heavy vehicle traffic and look for well-lit streets with sidewalks. Make arrangements for an adult or a responsible teen to accompany younger trick-or-treaters.

Get a flashlight with fresh batteries. A flashlight can help trick-or-treaters see and be seen.