LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is warning motorists to avoid getting caught up in a drunk driving nightmare this Halloween weekend.

“When partying takes to the roadways, too often the result is tragic,” said CHP Lieutenant Mark Loveless, commander of the Clear Lake Area office.

Death is the most significant and obvious consequence of drunk driving, but a host of other nightmares also can occur, the agency reported.

Getting arrested for DUI can cost drunk drivers thousands of dollars in expenses, revocation of their driver’s license and possible jail time.

If you will be driving on Halloween, make sure you and all your passengers are buckled up and that only non-drinking drivers get behind the wheel.

“Halloween is an exciting event for children, but streets are dark and traffic is heavy,” said Lt. Loveless. “While children are putting on their costumes, parents should remind them about basic pedestrian safety – stay with parents or a group, cross at the corner and check for traffic before crossing the street.”

Motorists also need to be aware of children running from house to house, he said.

“The safest approach is for parents to accompany their children as they go from house to house,” Lt. Loveless said.

He recommends carrying a flashlight to illuminate the sidewalks and alert motorists.

Parents also should take precautions to ensure costumes are safe and that their child’s vision is not obscured, he said.

“This day can be a time of fun and fantasy for children. Don’t let it turn into a tragedy. Take safety along with you as you go from door to door,” Loveless said.

He issued a final safety reminder to motorists to watch their speed and to always buckle up and secure children in child safety seats.

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